In the heart of Montreux, Switzerland, Huit Sushi emerges as a masterclass in contemporary spatial design, challenging the notion that stability defines modern architecture. Designed by the innovative Swiss studio Craft & Concept, this Japanese restaurant embodies a radical embrace of flexible interior design, proving that spaces can fluidly adapt to mood, function, and time.
The entire restaurant pivots around two intersecting walls – one clad in polished metal, the other in illuminated acrylic – forming a bold cross-shaped composition. This architectural gesture intuitively divides Huit Sushi into four distinct zones: the open kitchen, dining area, cocktail bar, and waiting lounge. The layout ensures seamless circulation while subtly demarcating functions, reflecting a restrained Japanese spatial logic where atmosphere arises from proportion, rhythm, and material presence rather than ornament.
At its core, a custom-designed LED wall, fabricated entirely in-house by Craft & Concept, dominates the space. This innovative lighting design offers full RGB spectrum control, enabling the ambiance to shift from serene daylight hues to vibrant evening tones without visual glare. The result is an immersive dining experience where technology enhances comfort and mood
Custom acrylic furniture – including bar counters, tables, and seating – introduces tactile depth. Crafted from textured, inhomogeneous blends, these pieces marry visual subtlety with durability, ensuring longevity amidst high-traffic service. Even the restroom door integrates into the LED system, glowing to match or contrast the main wall. This detail epitomizes the project’s pioneering approach: creating “different restaurants within one” through dynamic spatial flexibility.
Above, acoustic ceiling panels absorb excess noise during peak hours, maintaining sonic comfortwhile blending invisibly into the architecture. Seating zones range from intimate bar perches to communal tables, supporting both private conversations and lively gatherings. The matte-black monolithic restroom volume underscores Craft & Concept’s commitment to holistic design, extending the restaurant’s aesthetic identity down to the smallest detail.
Developed with November Architects, Huit Sushi Montreux transcends mere functionality. It’s a testament to how material precision, technological innovation, and emotional resonance can coalesce. Here, architecture isn’t static – it’s an evolving experience where form follows feeling, redefining Swiss restaurant design for a dynamic world.