Alan Yau calls in architect for London eaterie interiors task

Restaurateur Alan Yau’s forthcoming Japanese restaurant Cha Cha No Hana in London’s St James’s Street is set to open in September, following apparent changes to the design team.

Architect Denton Corker Marshall has been called in to work on the interiors for the restaurant, and it is now unclear what role will be played by the original design team. Almost a year ago, Yau selected Japanese architect Kengo Kuma to design the concept, and Japanese graphic designer Kenya Hara to handle art direction and graphics.

According to the plans submitted by the restaurant to Westminster City Council, the venue will be spread over three levels. A sushi restaurant will be situated on the ground floor, with a bamboo lattice suspended below the ceiling as part of the ‘soft’ fit-out. The main restaurant will be on the first floor incorporating raised perimeter seating, with a bar and private dining rooms located on a new mezzanine. Kitchen preparation and staff areas will be in the basement.