Sushi Tango Restaurant

By Lynda Pham and Janet Frausto

Sushi Tango is a restaurant currently located in Uptown, Minneapolis, Minnesota that serves a wide variety of Japanese sushi and hibachi on their menu. They first moved to this space for a larger area to accommodate more space for customers and a new interior in the summer of 2009. According to Sean Moore Designs, who was contracted to do the interiors, Sushi Tango's concept was a wonderful fusion of contemporary sushi and hibachi restaurant with a warm contemporary urban feel.

Walls

Black Granite Countertops with Metal Vine Sculptures (Photo from Sean Moore Design’s website)

The use of red ceramic tiles in the sushi bar and glass tiles in the entryway was one of the goals of the project from RSP Architect was fairly interesting when they wanted to give "solid and light impressions" This idea actually creates a transition from bright to slow warm which does not give a shock to the eyes of people walking into a dimmed-warm space. The red tiles in the sushi bar makes it pop out as a focal point of the space especially when light is directly above it. The only feature that might seem to be a problem is the lighting that bounces off the walls. It seems that the lighting is a little strong which might be too bright for the customers while they are looking up or watching the chefs make sushi. Maybe making the lighting at the top wall a little dimmer would give a warm feeling that will connect to the space.

Concrete Flooring and Carpets

Lighting Fixtures and Concrete Flooring (Photo from RSP Architect website)

The idea of floor just brings the color grey to our minds, but the used of Stained concrete floors is a different impression. RSP Architect wanted to provide a contemporary, urban-loft like feel which is really effective. From a picture view, it really looks like a granite-like material was used for the flooring or more like a golden marble was used. The golden color it emitted seem to guide customers into the space while blending into the walls which were close to the same color. The concrete flooring then ended with the start of carpets probably meaning that the destination has been reached. The materials used for the carpet was not available, but the designs was exciting because of the zigzags of neutral grey, brown, and copper that zig-zagged around the curved concrete. This created more energy to be pulled into the space.

Counter Tops and Vine Sculptures
Sushi Bar with red ceramic tiles (Photo from RSP Architect website)

Sean Moore Designs used black granite counter on the half curved wall that separated the sushi bar from the main bar in which they placed metal vine sculptures to divide but still keep the place connected through the crystallographic effect. The granite countertop would be very ideal because of the durability of the materials and the maintenance would be low since it rarely should come into contact with acids. The metal vine seems give an urban feel to it, but once light enters the space, the sculptures seems to blend and disappear into the space which really takes out the purpose of dividing. Maybe opting for different material for the sculpture would have made it a little bit better.

Panels

RSP Architects embedded transparent panels made of bamboo and grass for the windows throughout the space. The use of sustainable products in the space is a plus, and letting just enough light in order to light up the space while still keeping it warm with the lighting above in order to create an open and cozy space another plus.

Hibachi Table
Hibachi Tables and Panels (Photo from RSP Architect website)

A hibachi table is a modern cooking grill used for live grills that usually involve entertaining customers with a show of the cooking routine with amazing tricks. For these tables, it seems that black granite was used for the table around the grill which makes the silver grill and the white-uniformed chef the central focus automatically. Maintenance of the table would be low but the exposure to acid is not limited since food is served on these tables.

Decorating Pieces

Metal Sculpture “School of Fishes” with four red-glazed decor vases on the wall in the back

Sean Moore Designs placed 4 red-glazed vases on the walls to create a connection of the space to the sushi bar as well as create as a little guide to the sushi bar. The vase actually creates a sea-level for the metal fishes that are placed below the vases. In a sense, it kind has created a space of the sea which sushi's main ingredient is from. The fishes seem to bring more movement to the curvy space by going the opposite direction of the main stream.

Lighting Fixtures

The large, round lighting fixture actually seems to bring elegance to the space with the warm lighting that sheers through droplets of crystals, however, the exposed ceiling turns the elegance to another direction which does not give an appealing feel to it. More like a sense of juxtaposition but not quite up to par. If the ceiling was solid then maybe the elegance aura would have spread throughout the space rather than dissipating away.

Overall the space is very vibrant but at the same time is warm and cozy while being intriguing and exciting. The products used in the space were successful with some parts that could actually do better. The part that is very appealing is actually the flooring which looks very much like a golden marble. To me, I think it actually creates a cozy and exciting place to eat except the ceiling part.

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The Getty Villa

By Heather Orman

       Modeled after the Villa dei Papiri, an ancient Roman house that was originally located in Herculaneum, Italy, The Getty Villa will leave you in amazement of beautiful architecture, landscape, and art.  Driving up the coast of Malibu, The Getty Villa is located right off of Pacific Coast Highway, giving the museum a gorgeous background to its already apparent beauty.  Originally built in 1970 by architects Langdon and Wilson, it was then renovated from 1997-2006 by   Rodolfo Machado and Jorge Silvetti.  These new architects brought to life a more modern feel that still coincided with the Getty historic features.  Because the Villa dei Papiri was covered by Mount Vesuvius, they had to use models from other Roman country homes from that same time period.  Unfortunately I never saw the museum before its renovation, but I will say, the renovation is absolutely breath taking. 

Products

v  Oak

v  Marble flooring, walls, and staircases

v  Terrazzo flooring

v  Bronze lanterns

The attention to detail at the Getty was unbelievable.  From the floor to the ceiling to the dirt walkways, nothing was done unintentionally.  The bronze lanterns were reminiscent of the ancient Roman era that this museum was renovated after.  Even the shrubs and plants outside were those that Roman’s used to pick and eat off of for survival.  The marble flooring was so intricate and diverse from one room to another, there was even a “Hall of Colored Marbles.”

Materials

v  Wood

v  Glass

v  Travertine

v  Pebbles

v  Glass tiles

v  Glass

v  Bronze

v  Wood formed concrete

The materials used throughout the museum were either replicas of original pieces, or shipped over from Italy for the renovation.  Mixed together, even the trained eye would have a hard time telling which was which.  There was a grand marble staircase that had been recently restored and was truly a work of art itself.  There were mosaic tiles used on a water fountain outside in the garden area that were so tiny, from far away it just looked like a design, quite telling of just how much time was put into that one fountain. 

                Just like any J. Paul Getty museum, travertine covers the museum with simplicity and texture.  Mostly used on the outskirts of the museum, travertine can be found from the floor to the ceiling.  Just like its sister museum, it gives off the warm welcoming visitors embrace when entering the buildings. 

                I find myself visiting both the Getty museums not only for the artwork and sculptures, but mostly for the architecture and garden areas; the buildings themselves area work of art.  I could wander around all day lost in my thoughts taking wonderful pictures of the scenery, lounging in the grassy hills, or having a glass of wine by the fountains.  With the changing seasons the gardens change as well throughout the year, making it a perfect excuse to go explore the beauty that is the Getty Villa.

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Whole Foods Market @ The District (Tustin)

By Man Hin Chow and Miriam Horowitz

Founded in 1980 in Austin, Texas, Whole Foods Market has become America’s premier natural and organic food retailer. The company’s motto of “Whole Foods, Whole People, Whole Planet” sums up the Whole Foods mission of providing healthy food in an atmosphere that promotes sustainability by utilizing architectural and design elements that do not harm the environment.  The mission statement of Whole Foods Market is spelled out in the large art piece in the back of the store. The globe of the world is painted in the same warm earthy colors that are repeated throughout the store. 

Whole FoodsMarket opened a 60,000 square foot outlet four years ago in the District Mall in Tustin.  The color harmony of Whole Foods in Tustin is Shibusa accomplished with the colors of nature, varied textures and the use of granite countertops containing bold veins running through the slabs.  The exposed wood beams add to the overall rustic effect. 

Whole Foods market has an inviting outdoor dining area with bistro tables, a long sectional sofa and several rectangular coffee tables.  The space is surrounded by planters with beautiful greenery and provides a casual conversation area for customers to eat and relax.  There is successful use of rhythm in front of the store next to interior dining area with the placement of a series of potted plants and with the row of pendant lights hanging over the dining tables.  The potted plants also add to the overall Shibusa harmony.

photo by Heinz Chow

A no-wax polished sienna colored concrete floor, divided into 12 foot by 12 foot sections, visually opens up the interior of the store.  The market’s high ceiling also creates a feeling of greater open space.    The exposed ventilation ducts draw the eye upward and also visually opens up the interior space.   The open design concept of the market creates a sense of freedom for the customer and an eagerness to explore the products.

photo by Heinz Chow

The curved lines in the design of the tables, counters, chairs and walls add a softening effect to the store and promote a relaxed atmosphere.  Such an environment is conducive with the “natural” theme of healthy shopping choices.  The layout is inviting and offers the customer a pleasant shopping experience. 

photo by Miriam Horowitz

Presentation materials used in the Whole Foods Market are often sustainable.  Shelves, cabinets and furniture are manufactured using recycled and reclaimed wood.    Earthy tones of non-toxic paint are used throughout the store.   The use of sustainable materials is highly effective and suggests to the customer that the Whole Foods Market is concerned about the environment.  The lighting of the store is energy-efficient and the large front windows allow plenty of natural daylight.  The LED track lighting in the front of the store provides a rhythmic balance of light.   Whole Foods Market’s commitment to the environment and to energy conservation is evident throughout the Tustin store. An environmentally friendly approach to the architecture and décor promotes a healthy place to shop.    

There is a unique open bar located in the middle of the market.  A series of wine bottles arranged along the back wall of the bar creates transition rhythm and flows towards the bar entrance.  Most of the furniture in the bar is black and white except for a carnation-colored sofa which becomes the focal point of the bar.  The furniture is simple but elegant as are the several chandeliers hanging from the ceiling.  The bar area is a relaxing place to have a drink with friends or family.

photo by Heinz Chow

            Whole Foods market is overtly decorated with artwork in unexpected scale and represents food that is sold in different areas of the store.  Above the seafood section there is a huge painting of a ship floating in a harbor and another painting of cattle walking in a pasture identifies the meat section.  Above the produce section is a scene of a farmland with a windmill in the distance.  The same earthy tones are used in the paintings creating a cohesive color harmony.  Whole Foods Market effectively combines the use of warm receding colors and eye direction to draw the customer’s attention to different sections of the store.  This effective execution of design principles and elements adds to the ease of shopping in Whole Foods Market.

Overall Whole Foods Market combines a complete sensory experience---sight, smell, auditory, touch and taste---to reflect the stores’ natural products and philosophy.  In this way the customer is encompassed in a “complete” shopping experience as he or she chooses the food to put on his or her table.

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Sushi and Design

By Yuri Tag

Sushi in Mexico City will never be the same with Iron Chef Morimoto’s restaurant

designed by the Schoos Group. The design of the Morimoto Mexico City is a

harmonious fusion of the city’s distinctive style with Japanese tradition. Located inside

the legendary 5-star hotel, Camino Real Polanco, the restaurant blends perfectly with the

hotel’s unique hotel-museum design.

Lighting choices instantly create an ambiance one will never forget. Custom designed

light fixtures are faceted like jewels with black exteriors and highly polished brass

interiors, instantly drawing the viewer to its sparkle, reminiscent of geodes or Japanese

ceramics lined with gold leaf Pubs. These fixtures “evoke the elegance and fragility of

Japanese porcelain” Morimoto Mexico City. Energy efficient LEDs are also used as

accent lighting to create overlapping scallops of light on the walls, matching the

geometric shapes of the light fixtures.

The use of multicolored marble and pale wood flooring distinguishes separate areas

within the restaurant. While the main floor is marble, with tile in the expo kitchen, the

rest of Morimoto’s floors, walls and furniture is made of warm French oak Pubs. The

organic swirls and veins of the marble add organic sophistication. Although beautiful,

marble is easily scratched, reacts to acidity, requires much maintenance, and may present

a slipping hazard. Marble was carefully selected to be in a small portion of the restaurant

to minimize these issues. A slip-resistant coating can also be applied to either type of

flooring for safety.

In the photo above, the upholstery of the chairs upstairs also adds a nice splash of color

and creates a vibrant atmosphere. The use of bright golden furnishings has also created a

warm, friendly and welcoming interior. These gold finishes on furniture resemble large

pieces of jewelry more than furniture.

Rather than using traditional paint or wall coverings, Thomas Schoos showcased his

paintings and framed it with his “rope art” installation Thomas Schoos. This pays

tribute to the city’s distinctive style and the hotel-museum theme of the hotel. The lathed

French oak pillars that support the top floor tie the rope art to the space as well as evoke

Mexico City. This helps balance the geometric lines characteristic of Japanese design.

The rope art is also the one constant that ties the entire space together.

Despite the fact that the designing team was faced with a location challenge, they created

an implementable solution by dividing the large, cavernous room using a 75-foot high

glass ceiling so that it becomes a highly functional area Chictip. This allows for plenty

of natural light to flood the space during the day and striking views of the night sky for

dinner. Glass walls contain the seating in the mezzanine, balcony and up the stairs. These

floor-to-ceiling automatic glass walls open and close, separating the dining room from

the expo kitchen.

 

The Schoos group did an amazing job of combining interior design elements and principles to create a space that is modern, inviting and functional.  It's no wonder it was awarded as a finalist for the Hospitality Design Awards in 2011.

Tripalertz

 

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Susie Q Senior Community Center

By:  Kristiana Burgi

Located in the center of Laguna Beach, the Susie Q Senior Community Center  has become a meeting place for the city’s residents. The community center is not only for senior citizens but also for people of all ages. The focus was to create a place for all ages, “defy stereotypes,” and have everyone come together to become a part of the community.  Built by LPA, the structure represents sustainability as most of LPA's buildings portray. From the outside to the inside, the structure stands “green” with simple lines. The facility contains a lobby and reception as you enter the building, a library room with a fireplace, fitness studios, an art studio, computer lab, game room, conference room, kitchen, storage area and parking garage.

During the construction of the building, fly-ash was incorporated in the concrete. Fly ash is the material remaining from coal-fired electric generating plants. With all of the excess ash from these coal-fired plants, it acts as a recycled element when used with concrete. It reduces segregation, meaning it prevents the ash and concrete from separating. This can increase the strength, and reduce porosity. The use of fly-ash with concrete can also help to prevent the reinforcing steel from deteriorating. Most importantly, it saves water and does not have a big impact on a budget.

Throughout the building there is a lot of structural steel. “Structural steel produced in the United States contains 93.3% recycled steel scrap. At the end of a building’s life, 98% of all structural steel is recycled back into new steel products.” ASIC.Therefore, steel is not only recycled but “multi-cycled” considering it can be recycled more than once. This is called cradle-to-cradle material. Using structural steel protects our natural resources, is durable, and strong in compression and tension. It is also not difficult when modifications are needed and can adapt to changes in the structure.  

Located around the building, the sleek steel windows are dual-glazed windows. They create an insulator to prevent heat from escaping, reducing over fifty percent of heat loss. During the Winter, the windows help retain heat and in the Summer, helps to minimize heat gain. This can greatly lower power bills. The windows can act as a UV light protector, reducing the amount of UV light from entering the building and limits how much it can create the furniture and carpet from fading. Lastly, the dual window provides a sound buffer against outside noises. This was one of the things I was most impressed with being inside the building. Each room felt peaceful and quiet. Every time I stepped outside, I could not believe all the noise that was not able to be heard from inside.

Additional windows include aluminum-clad wood windows. A chemical bond is created between the aluminum and the paint to abstain chalking and fading. Chalking is when paint breaks down and a white powder starts to appear. Fading occurs when UV rays hit the wall with paint and causes the finish to fade.

In the kitchen and the offices, bamboo cabinetry is used. Hard and strong, yet highly renewable and sustainable. Bamboo grows faster than trees and remains intact when the bamboo stalks are stripped. The stalks are cut into strips and then glued together to form boards and planks. Compared to wood, Bamboo does not swell and contract as much. The only downside to bamboo is the costs for transportation. Since it is located in distant areas, the cost to transport it to the site you are working on with me more costly than purchasing a local material.

The flooring contains sustainable carpet choices that consist of a minimum of ten percent recycled content. On the walls, low-emission paints are applied. Low-emission paints help to decrease ozone-depleting contaminants. Low-VOC products behave well in terms of coverage and the ability to clean easily. Water based paints are the easiest to clean with just soap and warm water. By implementing low odor paints, it creates no off-gassing for a clean environment.

 Natural daylight shines through skylights and solar tubes along the roof. The natural light is not only physically beneficial but also emotionally. It is said that daylight can help to promote happiness and productivity. Tubular skylights provide an efficient way to acquire natural lighting. Catching daylight from the roof, it illuminates light through a tubular shaft. “On average, artificial lighting accounts for 40% of a building’s total energy usage… skylights allow artificial lighting to be turned off on average of seventy to eighty percent of the time.” Skylightbenefits. Outside of the building, covered parking provides a cool area bringing down the temperature (because we all know how hot it can get in Southern California).
Around the perimeter of the building and in the Garden, all plants are watered through drip irrigation to conserve water. Inside, the sinks and toilets are labeled as an energy star product.  The center has created a very efficient way to lower water usage.
In the end, the overall project is reported to have recycled at least seventy five percent of any construction waste. I consider the whole project to be a huge success. Not only were all the materials sustainable, you get a tranquil experience inside the building. Every day there is constantly activities going on and people socializing.

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City of Orange Fire Station No. 8

Case study by: Linda (Sellers) Tuggle

Fire Station No. 8 is a new permanent fire station that replaced an existing temporary station in the Orange Park area of the City of Orange, completed in March, 2008 at a total cost estimate of $2,847,000.00.

My reason for choosing this building as the subject of my case study is personal; when I met my husband in 2008, he was a Fire Captain assigned to this beautiful, modern station and I was very impressed with the design choices. The exterior façade of stucco and stacked stone along with the tile roof are appropriately fire resistant.

Although after repeated attempts by phone and email, I was unable to contact Nicoloff and Assoc., I was lucky enough to interview the “end users” – the firefighters themselves!

Nicoloff and Associates Inc., in San Diego, provided complete A&E services including design, construction documents – plans, specifications and cost  estimates – bidding support and construction observation. James Nicoloff was principal in charge and designer; Susan Vigus-Evans was project manager.

The scope of the project included a two- bay double-deep apparatus room, sleeping quarters for four firefighters and two fire captains, an exercise room, kitchen/dining facilities and a day room. Site development of the 1.5 acre lot includes an emergency generator, parking for visitors and staff and an outdoor patio area.

Since the firefighters work 24 hour shifts, the kitchen is a very important part of the station. There is a Captain, an Engineer and a Firefighter on duty together at all times and many meals are shared. This “kitchen to envy” is equipped with a Commercial grade Viking double oven and cook top and gets a lot of use, as do the two GE refrigerators and the Kenmore dishwasher (all stainless steel). There is also a Weber BBQ on the patio for outdoor grilling.

The counter tops, prep areas and sink are also stainless steel, chosen for their durability and anti-bacterial resistance. The satin finish is a functional and an easy to maintain stainless option.

Another important appliance is the Washer-Extractor used to wash their Turnout Gear. Firefighter turnout gear is essential to the protection of both the firefighter and those individuals they are trying to rescue. Debris that remains on turnout gear can damage it and render it incapable of providing the shield that the firefighters depend upon for survival. The most efficient way for firehouses to comply with National Fire Protection Assoc. guidelines for cleaning turnout gear is to invest in a programmable, front-load, washer-extractor. These machines allow for the precise control of water temperature, chemical types and amounts, number of baths, etc.

The day room is furnished with four La-Z- Boy Recliners and is carpeted with commercial grade carpet. The fabric selected for the recliners was Performance quality brown plush corduroy; chosen for its durability, comfort and stain resistance. The carpet is a long lasting commercial grade 100% Solution Dyed Polypropylene Nylon loop - strong enough to withstand foot traffic and resistant to stains and debris tracked into the station from footwear and boots.

With the exception of the dorm rooms which are also carpeted, the rest of the fire station flooring is Linoleum.  This eco-friendly, 100% natural product is also non-toxic and biodegradable. Linoleum is tough and can last for decades. Besides being hypoallergenic and water resistant, it is easy-care with regular mopping and cleaning. Since the firefighters do all their own housekeeping and are responsible for keeping their station clean during their shifts, low maintenance is very important to them.

All flooring in these busy, multi function areas were chosen for durability, hygiene, appearance retention and easy maintenance. Non- slip safety is also a concern given that when the fire alarm sounds, they are often awaken in the middle of the night and must quickly jump into their turn outs and boots and into the fire engine.

Since this report concentrated on the materials and products chosen for the interior of the station, I did not show the apparatus room, the storage areas for emergency equipment or the workout room, but they were also included in the project.

The design of this newest fire station is functional and beautiful at the same time.

Product Sources and Links:

 www.vikingappliances.net  (Oven and Cook top)

www.geappliances.com  (Refrigerator)

www.kenmore.com  (Dishwasher)

www.continentalgirbau.com  (Front-load Washer-Extractor)

www.la-z-boy.com  – Recliners

www.weber.com   (BBQ)

http://www.firechief.com/mag/firefighting

http://www.firefacilitesdesign.com/firestationequip.htm

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Spring 2012 - Stonemill Field Trip

By Ena Motley

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Stonemill Design Center

2915 Red Hill Avenue, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

714-435-3544

INTRODUCTION

On March 7^th the Materials and Products class went on a field trip to the Stonemill Design Center in Costa MesaCached - Similar.  Sandy Craig showed us around.  There we were able to go to four showrooms to hear about the products they sell and learn a little more about the industry.

FABRICUT

The showroom manager, Carol was such a wealth of knowledge in the fabric industry and her showroom carries several lines of fabric including their own Fabricut line.  Students are able to use the showroom and even take out 4 memo samples from the Fabricut and S. Harris lines.  As a new designer you can bring clients to the showroom, ask for information about the fabrics and get suggestions on the best selections for your particular situation.

ESTATEOF DESIGN

This wonderful showroom has many boutique lines of fabric, furniture, wallcoverings and accessories. Namely Sarah Strader- a young designer with lots of custom optionsCached - Similar. Thibaut- which has custom options in many of their wallcoverings and fabrics.  Telefina, Anna French, Robert Allen and Silk Roads.  They have not only fabric lines, but Furniture and Drapery Harware lines, that are out of the norm.  She also has a special wallcovering line that is paintable and moldable, woven woods, horsehair, embossed leather that can be custom colored, and unique drapery hardware to add another dimension to your interiors.

GERRIDY’S LTD.

Has been in buisness since 1977! She has beautiful lines of wood flooring and carpets and rugs.  There are engineered and solid wood floors.  Many of their engineered floors are 9 ply.  Anything over 4mm thick is a full cut and can be refinished as many times as you want, because it’s like having solid wood.  They carry a unique wine barrel floor as well as reclaimed wood flooring.   All reclaimed wood plank flooring is resourced from old barn, factories, and tobacco shed or farm buildings. 

We received a lesson in area rugs.  Finding that tufting machine rugs, wear out.  Carpet can be turned into an area rug.  And Gerridy’s s known for their beautiful Tibetan Rogs, made out of wool and silk.  They have lead times up to eight months, so if you want to get them tell your clients early in the project!

KENNETHMCDONALD DESIGNS

Kenneth McDonald was our final showroom and has a huge selection of fabrics to choose from for residential and commercial use. Including Kravet , Clark and Maharam.

Kenneth Mc Donald began his wallpaper and fabric business "Kenneth Mc Donald Designs" in 1956. Mr. McDonald was trained in Great Britain as a hand screen printer of designer wallpaper and fabrics. After many years of printing as well as opening his own showroom, the company was sold in 1988 to Warren De Young. It is operated by Warren and his daughter, Pamela Kellogg, along with many valuable employees. In 2000, they purchased Designers’ Resource Collection a showroom selling outdoor and indoor furniture. It has since expanded to include accessories, fabrics and specialty items that are sold to the "Design Trade." The company specializes in service to design professionals.

CONCLUSION

All the Students had a great time!  It was not only informative, but we were all able to get samples for our first project.  All these showrooms are “Design to the Trade” Only and most allow you to bring clients, but you cannot have clients walk in without you.

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