In Yerevan, Armenia, we met up with the design company Futuris Architects at the J Cook Restaurant. This is one of their latest projects and a prime example of the kaleidoscopic design they are renowned for. In all of their works, we love how the designers cohesively blend different styles and moods. They’re experts at creating a harmonious fusion of different interior styles. Following our interview with the designers, here is a closer look at their innovative work in the J Cook Restaurant in Yerevan. Plus, we delve into another of their current works from further afield, The Cali Industrial in the USA.
J Cook Restaurant, Yerevan
Named after the explorer James Cook, the inspiration for the J Cook Restaurant came from the different cultures seen on his travels. The result is a harmonious clash of divergent styles never seen before, crammed into a 79 square meter space. The interior designers have combined fine details with natural materials and low atmospheric lighting for a space like nothing we’ve seen before.
To get the exotic feeling across in the design, Futuris Architects Yerevan included plenty of tropical plants. This channels the feelings of nature and adventure as if you had stepped foot onto a deserted desert island. The foliage perfectly complements the green ceiling for a cohesive finish while drawing your attention upward. However, it is not only the color of the ceiling that is striking but also ornamental Rococo-style panels. These have been specifically hand-crafted for the J Cook Restaurant and evoke memories of the Italian Renaissance crossed with the Late Baroque.
The furniture pieces and lighting hand-selected by Futuris Architects Yerevan further complement the space. Plush velvet-like sofas run the length of the restaurant for an air of luxury and intimacy. However, this is paired with mismatched rattan chairs, an unmistakable hallmark of tropical style. The lighting is also an interesting juxtaposition of opposing styles. Each light fixing represents a different era and another of James Cook’s voyages. Yet, by carefully playing with warm atmospheric lighting, this mismatched selection of fixings becomes harmonious.
Not only does this extraordinary interior mirror the numerous expeditions by James Cook, but also the menu. The J Cook Restaurant offers a fusion of mouth-watering dishes, from Vietnamese Pho to tasty American dishes. The cocktails are equally as worldly, all mixed before your eyes behind the bar. This is the restaurant’s focal point and a great place to socialize among the diverging moods, styles, and cultures.
The Cali Industrial, USA
Heading over to Northern California in the USA and the Futuris Architects are currently working on another extraordinary project – The Cali Industrial. This is a unique and modern house currently in construction. It has a modular feel and a cube-like design that is highly distinctive, unlike any home we’ve seen before. The property is in the heart of the Californian forest, which is partly the inspiration for the project. The architects wanted to fuse the surrounding woodland environment with a more industrial style for a truly eye-catching creation.
To create this juxtaposition of styles – of nature with industry – in a harmonious and well-balanced way requires incredible talent. The designers used a natural dark brown color for the entire building that blends effortlessly with the surrounding firs. The use of floor-to-ceiling windows also gives a feeling of unity. Whichever position you look at the house from, you can always see through the paneled glass and into the forest behind. When inside the home, this clever design also ensures you still feel the presence of nature. Whether you’re watching television or eating breakfast, the towering trees, and the natural world lie right before you.
Despite working seamlessly with the surrounding Californian landscape, the property is still striking and noticeable for anyone that passes. The angular shape and use of metal give a contemporary feel. Interestingly, the metal being used in construction is also directly from the earth and contains natural energy, further enhancing the synonymity with nature. Exterior décor elements also add modern notes. From the contemporary statue to sleek and stylish outdoor furniture, there is urban modernism floating amongst the wildlife.
All in all, one word for this project would be unusual. It is a beautiful example of how contrasting styles and ideas can collide together to create striking architecture and design. The house is modern and industrial, but at one with the surrounding woodland landscape. And it complements the natural world while simultaneously being eye-catching and bold.
