Located at the intersection of St. Charles Avenue and Poydras Street, Tsunami New Orleans was a $1.4 million renovation of a former conference center into a lighted jewel within a prominent corner of downtown New Orleans. 

Woven throughout the space are natural earth tones, with warm woods and metals highlighted with hints of bronze. The concrete columns were left intentionally bare, as was the finished concrete floor. Accents of grey blue inspired by the artwork, can also be found throughout. “Bird Like” light fixtures in the main dining area act as a sculptural display that can be seen from exterior at night.

Inspiration was taken from Japanese Wagara patterns to create screening elements and textured surfaces to provide intimate spaces in the restaurant while maintaining visual connections between diner and sushi chef, restaurant patron and pedestrian. The sushi bar was envisioned as a stage; all the action and attention of the diners was meant to be drawn in, as if they were an audience. This performative aspect allowed patrons who were not sitting directly at the bar to be a part of the food prep and action of the restaurant.