█ mosonori
orlando, fl : [2025]
The second Mosonori location continues the design themes and material palette established in the flagship restaurant, which opened in 2024 in Winter Park. The space features indigo dyed fabric panels, hand-glazed ceramic tiles, and warm wood tones complemented by copper accents. Drawing inspiration from the writings and observations of Japanese author Jun’ichirō Tanizaki, the design embraces shadow and darkness to emphasize material depth and spatial nuance. Here, darkness cultivates a sense of intimacy, fostering quiet tension and unity among architectural elements. The ceiling plane rendered in warm white oak appears to float above the sushi bar and angled walls. Inspired by the form and function of Japanese folding screens, the perimeter walls unfold to reveal intimate nooks within the larger dining room. A brightly illuminated handroll bar, in sharp contrast to the dimly lit space, dramatizes and showcases the interactive dining experience. Balance and symmetry are key organizing features in the design of the space. The linear bar visually divides the space into two halves creating a zone for the chefs and a zone for patrons. The space culminates in a floral display set within an alcove, a direct reference to the Japanese "tokonoma." The "tokonoma" is a feature in many traditional Japanese homes, and its purpose is to create a space for contemplation and appreciation of beauty. The display alcove is lined with a bright, burnished copper texture and takes the shape of an auspicious Reishi mushroom, which in Japanese symbology is associated with good luck, health, and longevity.
Throughout the dining space, deep blue ceramic tiles sparkle and reflect light. The tiles allude to the traditional blue and white "sometsuke" porcelainware used in the food presentation at Mosonori. "Sometsuke," which means 'with dye,' refers to the technique of applying blue underglaze decoration on white porcelain. The term "with dye" is borrowed from the vernacular of traditional Japanese indigo dyeing, creating a subtle linguistic and cultural link to the "sometsuke" ceramic technique. This connection highlights a deeper relationship between the two crafts, both of which celebrate the richness of deep blue hues. The indigo of dyed textiles and the cobalt blue of porcelain reflect a shared aesthetic sensibility rooted in the values of Japanese craftsmanship.
“Were it not for shadows, there would be no beauty.”
― Jun'ichirō Tanizaki
photo credit | Chad Baumer Photography