Behind the Design of Sumosan’s New Luxurious Outpost
09 Dec. 2024
Multi-award-winning Japanese restaurant Sumosan has officially launched its first Bahraini outpost.
October 14th 2024 - Bahrain has welcomed the renowned Japanese restaurant Sumosan, which has captivated diners from Moscow to Dubai with its innovative Asian cuisine. The new outpost, designed by the internationally acclaimed studio Bishop Design on behalf of The Collection of Experiences, follows their previous work on Sumosan Riyadh established in 2022.
This venue offers a harmonious blend of spaces, each meticulously crafted to reflect the local cultural spirit while embracing Sumosan’s global identity, known for its signature green hues and the elegant use of metal and timber elements. Guests can enjoy a refined dining area, an intimate private room, a chic bar lounge, and a scenic terrace, all contributing to a uniquely sophisticated dining experience.
Behind the Design
Inside, the interior unfolds into an opulent setting where Sumosan’s signature green tones mingle with the organic textures of warm woods and raw stone, seamlessly juxtaposed against the gleam of refined metal accents.
Dylan Adams, Senior Designer at Bishop Design, articulates the overarching design philosophy, noting, "Our design narrative delicately balances opulence with the brand's ethos, incorporating organic materials like wood and stone alongside polished metal claddings." Adams highlights distinctive elements such as wave-patterned metal chains and a bold, fan-like wall installation that acts as a sculptural centrepiece. These features are meticulously illuminated to cast intricate shadows, enriching the tactile journey for every guest.
The ambiance of Sumosan is dramatically transformed by the lighting, particularly the custom lantern features, provided by local lighting specialist, Lumen Arts. The oversized shades, inspired by traditional Asian designs, hang gracefully above the dining area. Their soft, fibrous textures diffuse a warm, mellow light that bathes the space in comfort. Varying in size and suspended at different heights, these lanterns create a mesmerizing visual experience, adding both dynamic movement and a sculptural quality to the atmosphere.
Complementing the natural aesthetic, precise architectural lighting, designed by UK brand, into is strategically embedded throughout the venue. These lighting elements help to enhance the textures and materials used throughout Sumosan, from the polished wood panels to the luxurious fabric of the seating. The result is a visual feast that not only elevates the dining experience but also encapsulates the essence of the Sumosan brand—where tradition meets contemporary elegance.
In the private dining area, a rotating selection of artwork by talented local artists brings an ever-evolving elegance to the space. Each visit promises a fresh discovery, as new pieces captivate and intrigue, ensuring there’s always something unexpected to admire. This dynamic showcase is the result of a thoughtful collaboration with Bahrain’s RAK Art Foundation, blending art and ambiance in perfect harmony.
Accessed through intricately carved wooden doors, the dedicated bar area of Sumosan offers an enclave of intimacy and comfort, inviting guests into its uniquely refined atmosphere. A dynamic ceiling design adds a dramatic visual element, while metallic wall renders, create a lustrous effect that adds depth and sophistication to the surroundings, amplifying the warmth and welcoming ambiance of the bar.
Situated within the opulent confines of the Address Beach Resort Marassi Al Bahrain in Manama, recently crowned as Bahrain’s Leading Resort 2024 by the World Travel Awards, the new venue heralds the brand’s fourth foray into the Middle East and its ninth global outpost that continues to promise an unparalleled dining experience.
Commenting on the partnership with Bishop Design, Hugo Goncalves, General Manager of The Collection of Experiences Hospitality said,
“We are very pleased with the partnership formed with Bishop Design for the Sumosan Bahrain project. Their exceptional ability to bring our vision to life and integrate such a renowned brand into the Bahraini region has been impressive. The collaboration between The Collection of Experiences and Bishop Design has set a strong benchmark for hospitality design. This partnership has successfully captured the essence of the Sumosan brand and its innovative culinary approach, while also highlighting the artistry of Japanese cuisine through thoughtful design and architecture. As we move forward, we anticipate that Sumosan Bahrain will play a key role in shaping the local culinary scene, becoming a notable part of Bahrain's growing food culture and setting a high standard for luxury dining.”
