Inspired by science and built by mathematics, this design construct creates a natural space for Budapest’s newest fine-dining spot
Hello Wood uses parametric design elements to bring life to Textúra restaurant
Fine dining doesn`t typically conjure up the words “intimate” and “informal”, and yet this was always the goal with Textúra. This new restaurant in the heart of downtown Budapest is a passion project for its owners, and everything from the dishes that are served to the atmosphere of the space that guests will sit in was designed with this core sensation of tranquillity at its core. Architectural and design studio Hello Wood helped to create an organic yet mathematical structure that sits at the heart of the space, working in coordination with the restaurant’s designer to meet the brief of creating a sophisticated yet easier side to fine dining.
As the sister restaurant of popular Michelin-star establishment Borkonyha, the idea behind Textúra was to create a fine-dining experience that cast aside the typical expectations of such an environment for something more relaxed and comforting. To help create such an atmosphere, award-winning interior designer Anett Ficzere took inspiration from nature and so contacted Budapest-based studio Hello Wood due to the company’s preference for constructing with natural materials. Thanks to the studio’s experience and knowledge, it was the obvious choice in helping with construction of the tree-like installation in the middle of the restaurant. An ornamental lamp using the same innovative construction method and algorithmic design was also built to match, accompanying the unique installation that sits at the centre of the room.
Inspired by Textúra’s chef and his scientific desire to create dishes with atomic techniques, it was the geometrical concept of Voronoi cells that sparked the idea behind this central installation. The result is a formal yet organic feeling to the space as the mesh-like pattern adorns the walls, forms partitions and is used as part of the main installation that branches out across the ceiling of the room like a canopy.
After the first step of creating 3D models and renders, however, it was initially believed that the only means for its creation was through 3D printing. But during the three-year development of the restaurant’s design and construction, Hello Wood became involved and was able to utilise its experience and technical knowledge in the field to assist with a more natural approach. An algorithm was used to recreate the voronax formula, allowing for the unique mesh to be designed and making this the first example of parametric interior design within Hungary.
After creating several prototypes of the components for the complicated installation, Hello Wood finally settled on the processes needed to fabricate and construct this complex project. In fact, this was made possible because of the five-axis CNC machining technology that is available at Hello Wood’s workshop. This allowed for the intricate, glue-laminated pine blocks to be created and connected together with 500 individual junctions. Reaching 9-metres long, 5-metres wide and alongside an 8-metre high funnel, it was necessary to partially assemble the installation at the workshop before completing its construction on-site over the course of three days.
Outside of its design and architectural work, Hello Wood also arranges an annual summer camp where young architects and designers come together to work on themed projects. Ahead of its tenth jubilee this summer, Hello Wood has an open call available for would-be students and workshop leaders to apply for the unique international summer school and festival.
