A vibrant, multi-coloured mural featuring floral patterns and Japanese-inspired graphics covers the back wall of this space. A Maneki-neko (lucky cat) figurine sits on a dark counter in the foreground, while a person works with a white geometric ceiling fixture.

Kosaten Launceston

Launceston, Tasmania 2018

Surprises within.

Beginning life as an old power tool workshop in the heart of Launceston city, the site for this Japanese eatery was chosen specifically for its unassuming, utilitarian exterior.

Similar to the traditional restaurants in Kyoto's old city, Kosaten was designed as a hidden sanctuary, surprising visitors with an unexpected, highly sensory dining experience.

Japan on the menu and the itinerary.

On entering the solid timber doors, visitors notice a series of dining spaces, each separated by contrasting murals and graphics from local graphic art collective Daisylegs. Each section is intended to transport diners to a different region of Japan, with returning customers encouraged to experience a new region with every visit.

Colour, technology and interactivity were central to the success of this unique hospitality project. With automated food delivery tracks, tablet ordering systems, and digital projections reflecting changes in season, the fun extends well beyond the sushi and sake.

A dimly lit restaurant features Japanese-style light box lanterns and a large circular purple light with a tree-like pattern. People are seated at dark dining booths in the background.

Japanese-style light box lanterns featuring black-and-white graphics and vertical text hang against a dark background. A white steel frame is visible behind the lanterns.

A cloud and mountain mural decorates a white brick wall next to a dark bench with yellow bolsters. The bright space is divided by a white mesh screen and furnished with round wooden tables.

A long, polished counter reflects warm light in a narrow restaurant where customers are seated. In the background a large purple circular glowing light.

This modern dining area features a long dark counter with tablet ordering screens and minimalist place settings. Translucent orange and white panels hang overhead, while a large circular light with a tree pattern glows in the background.

This private dining area features a long wood table set for eight with curved grey chairs. A white geometric framework hangs overhead, surrounded by dark tiled walls and a glass partition.

A vibrant multicolored mural is visible behind a white geometric framework and a frosted glass screen. A staff member stands near a sign reading "KO-SA-TE-N".

This dining space is divided by a white mesh screen and features a round wooden table set with minimalist crockery. Translucent orange panels and a large yellow lantern with Japanese text hang above a dark counter in the background.

This restaurant features sunken-style seating with glowing under-lighting on the left and a traditional long wooden table on the right. Japanese-style light box lanterns and a white geometric framework hang above the dining areas.

A large, circular light box featuring a white cherry blossom tree glows next to a Japanese-style lantern with black and white illustrations. Colourful murals and dark partitions are visible in the background.

Kosaten Launceston

Surprises within.

Japan on the menu and the itinerary.

Todd Henderson

Dual recognition for Cumulus at Tasmanian Architecture Awards

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