PROJECT FEATURE.
Norigami Sushi Bar
A speakeasy experience brought beautifully to life.
Norigami Sushi Bar offers an enchanting escape in the heart of Houston. Conceived as a hidden speakeasy adjacent to an existing sushi restaurant, Very Handsome Studio helped achieve a unique space that transports guests into a twilight ambiance and invites patrons to immerse themselves in a magical experience.
*PHOTOGRAPHER CREDIT: FAJAR HASSAN
Inspired by the fantastical journey of Alice in Wonderland, the vision was to create a space that feels like stepping through a portal into another realm.
The goal? To craft a distinct atmosphere that contrasts yet complements the adjacent sushi restaurant, appealing to a young, vibrant crowd seeking something secret, fun, and extraordinary.
The adventure begins in the main sushi restaurant, where a concealed wooden door beckons the curious and maintains the speakeasy's clandestine allure. Guests push through to find themselves in a space that feels both surprising and harmonious with the restaurant.
“We wanted to transport people into a whimsical, magical experience. By capturing the indefinite twilight through our color scheme and finishes, we created a sunset-inspired palette that offers warmth and enchantment all day long.”
HAN DANG, VERY HANDSOME STUDIO
Randolph Forest (8225K-79) from Wilsonart Woodgrains™ was used on the back bar wall, banquette, and booth seating frames. It is a straight grained wood with an interesting mix of Teak and Framire, an African Oak. The color is a dark mid-tone brown with highlights and lowlights.
“It was selected to introduce warmth and a natural wood feel that complements the overall color palette without overpowering it. The realistic woodgrain and dark tones provided the perfect balance.”
HAN DANG, VERY HANDSOME STUDIO
Satin Brushed Gold Aluminum from Wilsonart® Decorative Metals was used for the front of the bar.
“We used Satin Brushed Gold Aluminum to achieve the luxurious look of metal without the cost and weight. The brushed finish offers a soft, subtle sheen that enhances the whimsical atmosphere.”
HAN DANG, VERY HANDSOME STUDIO
All the materials that we had to specify not only had to be aesthetically pleasing and capture the metal or wood essence, but it had to be easy to clean and maintain over time. With heavy activity in a tight space, the materials must withstand drinks, spills, and more.
“Durability is something that we prioritize when we select the material. Once the nightlife hits, it’s crowded, lively. Wilsonart® HPL was the perfect solution to achieve the look while fulfilling the long-term needs of the space. In this project specifically, we couldn’t specify natural woods or metals. The products of Wilsonart capture the natural wood look that we are trying to achieve with the warm space. The brushed metals simply look stunning while adding to the mysterious feel.”
HAN DANG, VERY HANDSOME STUDIO
Since opening in August, Norigami Sushi Bar has been met with enthusiasm:
“Guests love the concept and the intricate details that make the space so intriguing. It's one of the few speakeasies in Houston, and people are excited about the unique experience we offer.”
NORIGAMI MANAGEMENT
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