Honor Award

Nami

  • Year: 2024
  • Entry Categories: Restaurant – New Construction

Nami

“Nami,” meaning “wave” in Japanese, offers an extraordinary dining experience that seamlessly blends culinary artistry with dramatic design. Located within Lake Nona’s Wave Hotel, this intimate restaurant captivates guests from the moment they arrive. The atmosphere is immersive, featuring dim lighting, curated sound, and authentic materials that heighten the senses and enrich the flavors on the plate.

The design of Nami invites guests on a journey, beginning with a tranquil reception area where they are greeted by a host. They then pass through an oversized, pivoting panel that reveals the vibrant dining space, adorned with delicate gold leaf, red-grained woods, and silky Japanese Maple trees. Ethereal murals by Dean Barger provide a striking backdrop, embodying the storytelling tradition revered in Japanese culture.

This transportive design is fundamental to Nami’s success, fostering a sense of escape from reality. Every detail is crafted to evoke the feeling of being anywhere in the world. The windowless environment enhances this immersion, creating a unique atmosphere that draws affluent guests seeking an exceptional dining experience. The concurrent development of the concept and design with the client ensured a cohesive vision, resulting in a sophisticated offering that stands out in Lake Nona and Orlando’s competitive culinary landscape.

  • FirmASD | SKY
  • Project LocationOrlando, Florida
  • Completion DateJuly 10, 2023
  • OwnerTavistock Restaurant Collection
  • Architects and Designers Adam Toal, AIA
    John Curran, AIA
    Ethan Lewis
    Rebecca Wilcox
    Steven Fendley
  • MEP EngineerInfinity Engineering
  • Structural EngineerInfinity Engineering
  • General ContractorShwmut
  • Consultants and VendorsCONSULTANT
    Lighting/Gabler-Youngston

    VENDORS
    Millwork - Raydeo, Siteline
    Interior Trees - Treescapes
    Stone Counters - Marmi
    Tile Floor - TileBar
    Art - Dean Barger
  • PhotographyRichard Cadan