MONK I JAPANESE & ASIAN

Emre Dörter

• Architects

Zen philosophy has its origins in Dhyana, a school of meditation founded in the first century BC. Zen, a life philosophy of enlightenment, simply means "meditative state" and its core teaching is to experience the journey and seek a dynamic stillness in the mind. The restaurant, named "Monk" in honor of the monks who follow this teaching, offers a blend of modern Japanese and Asian cuisine.

Monk is an innovative adaptation of traditional Zen lines with the entire brand identity designed by Wangan, from the experience and interior design to the staff attire and kitchen elements. The design, which features inherently dynamic and complex detailed patterns, is essentially made up of processed materials from four basic elements: Wood, natural stone, terracotta and metal. In the project where unique layers with few materials were created, direct reference is made to the values of simplicity, naturalness, and tranquillity of the Zen philosophy. The main lines and hidden details of the design, which emphasizes the choice of natural materials, are inspired by the curved and linear structure of the gardens, one of the reflections of the Zen philosophy.

Inspired by Zen gardens and sakura branches, the pattern designed by the studio for the brand is found in different shapes and colors in key places of the project. In the entrance area, the amorphous corridor positioned to create a sculptural and mystical feeling and the pattern consisting of specially rusted red tones are used in natural rock tones behind the metal grilles, one of the important architectural elements in the interior, reminiscent of Japanese walls. The koi fish pattern, designed in Japanese grit in accordance with the atmosphere of the space and representing strength and success in Asian philosophy, gives a striking look to the ceiling facade of the restaurant.

The restaurant, where each area is made special by creating different levels in the interior, has a total capacity of 180 people with its sushi bar, general seating areas, and terrace. Monk's mobile furniture was also designed by Wangan.