Abu Dhabi’s Al Qana district has welcomed a brand new addition to its waterfront with the disclosing of Otaku Café, designed by Shell + Core. Departing from the minimalist aesthetics of its UAE counterparts, this location embraces an experimental strategy, drawing inspiration from famend Japanese architect Tadao Ando and the wabi-sabi philosophy.
Shell + Core has reimagined the cafe’s interiors with a daring interaction of uncooked materiality and natural textures. Concrete volumes distinction with heat components, forming a sculptural composition that balances brutalist starkness with pure imperfection. A central column, partially wrapped in wealthy wooden and set with dramatic lighting, turns into a focus, casting shadows throughout the combination concrete flooring.
The area embraces the Japanese wabi-sabi philosophy, celebrating the great thing about imperfection by means of uncovered pure supplies. Californian burl wooden serves as a standout function, infusing the cafe with heat, whereas classic furnishings choices add a timeless contact. Massive crops strategically punctuate the interiors, subtly defining intimate seating areas whereas preserving the venue’s openness.
Reflecting its waterfront setting, the design incorporates fluid, flowing kinds that mimic the motion of water. Reflective surfaces and thoroughly curated lighting create an evolving interaction between gentle and shadow, guaranteeing the area feels dynamic all through the day.
