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When Authenticity Counts
Masao Kumagai is a highly skilled and experienced sushi chef who
saw a need for an authentic sushi bar in Nelson where it was possible to purchase and enjoy
traditional Japanese sushi. The result was Sushi House, a new business venture run by Masao and his
wife Yuko.
Sushi House
was the perfect name as it embodied a simplicity that reflects the style of the food. However, the
brand name needed a brandmark to match. Masao approached 7 Design Secrets because he believed we
have a good design team and have good ideas.
Masao and Yuko provided us with suitable Japanese characters to incorporate into the design of
their brandmark. They say they are very impressed with the final result: the colour and style were
completely different to what they had imagined, but they are happy that it evokes the right
sentiments for their business.
Once the brandmark was complete, it was time to design the sushi bar itself. The look needed to be
clean and fresh, qualities that inspire confidence in customers buying fresh food. As the budget
was tight, a fresh coat of paint, careful placement of the counter and the addition of suitable
fittings and decorations were the obvious way to achieve this feel.
Masao was originally keen to paint Sushi House in bright yellow, but changed his mind after seeing
the 7DS office, which is painted a rich red colour. Masao recognised that the red was much more
inviting. We suggested opening the space up by using the red only on the back wall and having white
side walls and a light-coloured floor to draw the eye inwards towards the food bar. The idea worked
and the colours have created a contemporary looking sushi bar with a friendly atmosphere.
Masao and Yuko are very satisfied with the end result. The concept is upbeat and funky, making the
sushi bar comfortable for new customers to venture in. Masao summed up the experience of dealing
with 7DS:
“ Thank you very much to Gareth and his crew. His friendship and
help have been very appreciated. We are very happy.”
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