Literally translated as “strange or quaint” in Japanese, Kimyona is a hidden gem in Riyadh, offering a distinctive Asian cuisine experience. Designed by AZAZ Architects, the restaurant’s concept draws inspiration from analog black-and-white film photography and the red light used in photographic development.

In the dining hall, customers are embraced by an atmosphere of enigmatic and minimalist elegance. Every architectural detail is designed with extreme care, allowing the textures of the materials to stand out as the main protagonists of the space. The environment, reminiscent of a photographer’s darkroom, is dominated by dark materials, while glimpses of the outside world are filtered through the perimeter wall of translucent glass bricks. In this tranquil atmosphere, richly coloured stone and tiling offer a vibrant counterpoint.

In line with the architectural concept, the interplay of light and shadow adds to the scenography of the space. Lighting is strategically used to give prominence to selected architectural features, while low-glare downlights ensure a pleasant dining experience by discreetly accentuating each table. Special attention is drawn to the ceiling feature, where tunable white LED modules reflect off the array of metal tiles hanging above. The contrast between the play of light in this metallic installation and the rest of the ceiling, left intentionally bare, adds a dramatic flair to the space. Warm lighting is incorporated into the joinery below the leather seating and the central bar, creating a sense of intimacy in these areas as well as exposing the beauty of the rich red materials. While the overall lighting design by Light Bureau is simple and subtle in most of the spaces, saturated red lighting is occasionally used to accentuate key design elements, such as the main shelves at the bar and the glossy tiles in the restrooms, where the graphic linear luminaire interacts with the surrounding surfaces generating a dynamic collage of reflections in the soft curves of the ceiling.

As a result of this meticulous attention to the relationship between light and materials, the dinning area appears as a space where time stands still and guests can enjoy an unique immersive experience. From the exterior, the obscure translucency of the glass bricks, offers an abstract perspective into the restaurant, without giving too much away. Driven by curiosity, guests are first welcomed into a gallery-like space. With its neutral tones and soft lighting, the reception adds to the dramatic journey, leaving visitors momentarily unaware of the true character of this secret venue.


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