MIAMI— KAORI is a Mediterranean Asian fusion cuisine experience located on the ground level of the SLS Lux complex in the heart of Miami’s Brickell neighborhood. The restaurant is now officially open and welcoming guests. Collaborators Interior Image Group (IIG) and Spazio/Bressan partnered on the interior design to create an open, airy, and bright restaurant with a thoughtful balance of sophistication and casual comfort.

The 4,500-square-foot establishment includes a first-floor bar and lounge, a second-floor dining area with an expansive view of downtown Brickell, a private dining room, and an expo kitchen. IIG and Spazio/Bressan incorporated clean, contemporary lines using both Mediterranean and Asian-influenced design elements with a modern and chic aesthetic. 

Spazio/Bressan’s design concept coupled with IIG’s upscale hospitality design expertise led to a seamless collaboration that brings a fresh dining experience to the Brickell area. “We drew inspiration from KAORI’s urban locale but wanted to blend both modern and relatable elements to support a cohesive design full of warmth and sophistication,” said Leslie Schultz, Senior Vice President of Design at IIG. “Our vision created a destination for patrons that engages all of their senses.” 

KAORI’s interior is modulated by a series of vertical screens—creating smaller intimate spaces— transparent enough for the flow of light and traffic. With an aim for simplicity, IIG and Spazio/Bressan narrowed down to five natural and organic materials found throughout, including concrete, metals, linen, sisal, and wood. With a color palette that pairs warm neutrals and cool plasters, the team incorporated light-toned wall finishes and porcelain floors that contrast with darker woods and stones to give a sense of inviting warmth and connect the location’s urban setting with nature. Lush greenery enlivens the venue and adds another layer to the natural aesthetic.

Lighting within the restaurant plays a vital role in supporting a bright and airy ambiance. For example, a set of origami bird lights perch in the double-height space over the bar. Guests can ascend the feature staircase and have the opportunity to view the “birds” from above, below, and all sides, creating a beautiful focal feature. A mix of clear glass globes and woven rattan pendants in the dining area adds casual sophistication to the restaurant. The design team also incorporated smokey mirrors and custom-made furniture that complement the overall design bringing an approachable yet elegant feel to KAORI. Additionally, the modern seating primarily made of walnut wood with an organic silhouette and vinyl fabric upholstery offers a maintainable surface for easier cleaning between each guest. 

“The best interiors evoke a mood,” said Esteban Bressan of Spazio/Bressan. “They're an extension of our lifestyle. They entertain, provide solace, bring us closer together, and welcome us home.”

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ABOUT INTERIOR IMAGE GROUP

Interior Image Group (IIG) is a leading interior design, branding, and procurement firm, which specializes in brand, boutique, and mixed-use hospitality projects of various scales. Founded in 2004 by Patti Tritschler, the firm’s President and Chief Executive Officer, IIG places storytelling at the heart of every project to create memorable environments that one can experience using all of their senses as they unlayer the numerous elements that await them. The firm’s aesthetic is sophisticated and approachable—two qualities shown in every project’s thoughtfully crafted design narrative. Whether it be a customized feature in a lobby or a unique and creative concept that aligns with brand standards, IIG tailors the design to that specific property, giving each its own identity and personality. IIG is well versed in the hospitality industry, having worked on all hospitality sectors. With offices in Indiana and Florida, IIG continuously expands its domestic and international portfolio in partnership with noteworthy clientele such as Concord Hospitality, First Hospitality Group, Auro Hotels, Cornerstone Hospitality, and Caesars Entertainment. IIG is also Brand Preferred for many hotel brands, including Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Marriott International, and IHG Hotels & Resorts. For more information on the firm’s most recent projects and happenings, please visit https://www.iigdesign.com/

ABOUT SPAZIO/BRESSAN

Esteban Bressan is the owner of Spazio/Bressan, the Miami-based design firm with a focus on residential interiors. Esteban’s understanding and interpreting his client’s aesthetic and lifestyle needs are essential parts of his skill set so that the design will reflect the client’s personality and respond to their individual tastes and aspirations. Esteban prides himself in designing practical solutions for whatever his clients require. Esteban brings a discerning eye, an unmatched sense of style, and a personal level of dedication to every project and every client. With his main goal of delivering inspirational interiors to clients, Esteban prides himself on a multi-disciplinary vision to make each project unique and timeless. He designs according to the client’s needs and is constantly driven and challenged by his passion to create stylish, organic, and contemporary spaces.

ABOUT KAORI MIAMI 

KAORI is Miami’s newest Mediterranean-Asian-inspired culinary concept, nestled in the very heart of downtown Brickell. Located at the ground level of SLS LUX Brickell, the all-expansive dining destination brings two levels of unparalleled indulgence and entertainment to the neighborhood. Helmed at the culinary hands of renowned Chef Fabrizio Garofolin, KAORI’s menu exudes an eclectic and sophisticated fusion of flavors that offers a beautiful balance between the two worlds of Mediterranean and Asian cuisine. From the delicately warm-toned interior, to the exceptional food and beverage programming, to the synergetic entertainment component, every harmonic extension of KAORI naturally blends to create the signature ‘KAORI’ guest experience. KAORI Miami is located at 871 South Miami Ave. South Miami, FL 33130. For more information, visit: https://kaorimiami.com/ / Instagram: @KaoriMiami / Facebook: @KAORI-MIAMI