Sasa Sushi, Clerkenwell

Sasa Sushi has been operating for over fifteen years, and is a small, family-run sushi restaurant renowned in Islington. While they were seeking to expand, they also wanted to maintain the cosy, family-friendly atmosphere that made them beloved by the community. We worked closely with them to ensure our design delivered something elevated, but also warm and familiar. 

The 2,700 square foot site is a Grade II listed building and our aim was to seamlessly integrate its historical charm of the building with traditional Japanese restaurant design. We worked closely with Islington Council’s Heritage Team to ensure all of the historically significant features of the building were preserved. Certain elements, such as the cast iron fireplace, were emphasised to create a tangible connection between the building's history and its current use. Others, like the Victorian red tiles, were carefully and discreetly concealed to maintain the natural, traditional Japanese atmosphere at the heart of the interior. 

The historic roof dome provides a striking contrast against the clean lines, natural materials, and traditional feel of the interior. Traditional Japanese woodwork, stained in the brand's signature colours, allows the grain to remain visible and forms the centrepiece of the space: the blue sushi bar. This feature pushed the boundaries of the client's vision, but exemplified the design's intent: rooted in tradition, whilst striving to be original and forward-thinking. 

We custom designed the private dining area, furniture and lighting throughout using natural materials and traditional methods. Bespoke ventilation and service systems were integrated to meet functional needs of the space, while preserving its familiar, intimate atmosphere. 

In addition to the design, we delivered exceptional timeline management for this project. By carefully scheduling applications during the schematic design stage, approvals were obtained efficiently, allowing construction to start promptly, and the project to be completed smoothly. 

The restaurant stands as a distinctive fusion of cultural heritage and modern design. It provides an exceptional dining experience that honours its history while embracing its evolution in a community that has supported it for over a decade.