Itoko
Chicago, il
Tasteful, timeless,
teahouse-inspired aesthetics.
SERVICES
Environment Design
- Concept Design
- Schematic Design
- Design Intent
- Construction Oversight
CREDITS
Boka Restaurant Group, Photography
The Approach
Chef Gene Kato’s Lake View restaurant embraces its location. Inspired by Japanese teahouse design, it’s a go-to spot equally suitable for a drink or special occasion—with soft, warm colors, rhythmic and restrained materiality, and a bar right in front.
The Expression
Beautiful, balanced, bleached-wood divider screens segment the space while maintaining connectivity. Scalloped and fish-scale patterns and motifs allude to Chef Kato’s stunning seafood creations, resulting in a “Japandi” (Japanese and Scandinavian) expression of welcome.
The Space
Designed to fit within the footprint of a former bowling alley, the long, narrow space holds three sections: a bar, a Hollywood booth area, and a dining room—anchored by a fish counter offering sightlines to the kitchen.
