SOBO: Where dining meets acoustics in Paris
Step into SOBO, an 80-square-meter venue in Paris, designed by the creative force of Studio Louis Morgan and interior architect Louis Aspar. This plant-based restaurant offers a unique dining experience as it doubles as a listening space, merging interior architecture, food, music, materials, and acoustics into a seamless, multisensory hospitality experience. Drawing inspiration from the serene atmosphere of Japanese ryokans and listening cafés, the design is enveloped in rich, mahogany-toned oak paneling.
Sound as a cornerstone of design
In SOBO, sound is as integral to the architecture as the walls themselves. Custom audio systems and plant-fiber acoustic ceiling panels not only enhance acoustic comfort but also create a sanctuary for vinyl enthusiasts. Every element, from architecture to lighting and furniture, is interwoven to craft a continuous narrative. This is a place where space, sound, and guest interaction fuse into a unified experience, reflecting the studio’s ethos in redefining hospitality design.
Studio Louis Morgan designs SOBO as a multisensory hospitality space
The interior brings together dining, music, materiality, and acoustic design
A Parisian experience with bold materials and vintage charm
Mahogany-toned oak paneling imbues the space with warmth, while vintage furniture introduces a touch of contrasting character. The combination of these elements creates an environment that’s both intimate and contemporary. Each piece is thoughtfully curated, aligning identity and functionality with material beauty. This experience promises more than just food; it captivates all senses.
The inclusion of mahogany-toned oak paneling offers a visual and tactile warmth akin to the ideas found in Piccolo Morini’s revitalization of Soho’s dining scene, offering readers a glimpse into another culinary transformation.
The material palette combines warm tones with a contemporary spatial language
Architectural acoustics and serene lighting
SOBO treats sound not merely as a technical component but as an architectural element, weaving it throughout the restaurant. Plant-fiber ceiling panels significantly elevate sound control, enhancing the acoustic ambiance. This dedication to sound quality, paired with carefully controlled lighting, cultivates an intimate atmosphere reminiscent of the quiet charm of Japanese retreat spaces, enriching the overall dining experience.
The interior connects identity, functionality, materiality, and acoustic comfort
Plant-fiber acoustic ceiling panels improve sound control within the space
For more on how space and ambiance intertwine, see how Adrià Goula redefines renovation through the lens of architecture in his Barcelona exhibit, which parallels SOBO’s focus on design elements.
A Japanese-inspired haven
SOBO channels the essence of Japanese ryokans, offering a retreat-like atmosphere where space and sound coexist in harmony. The restaurant’s circulation enhances the relationship between these elements, creating a fluid guest experience that is as much about auditory pleasure as it is about culinary delight, completing a remarkable sensory journey.
Carefully controlled lighting contributes to SOBO’s intimate atmosphere
The restaurant organizes circulation around the relationship between space and sound
Project details
Name: SOBO
Architect: Louis Aspar / Studio Louis Morgan | the studio’s | @studiolouismorgan_louis_aspar_
Location: Paris, France
Photographer: Irvin Heller
Sources & Links
Source: designboom.com
Frequently asked questions
What is the design inspiration for SOBO in Paris?
SOBO is inspired by the serene atmosphere of Japanese ryokans and listening cafés. The design incorporates mahogany-toned oak paneling and a plant-based menu to create a seamless, multisensory hospitality experience.
How does SOBO integrate acoustics into its design?
In SOBO, sound is an integral part of the architectural design, with custom audio systems and plant-fiber acoustic ceiling panels enhancing acoustic comfort. The restaurant treats sound as an architectural element, using it to create a unified, multisensory experience.
What materials are used in SOBO’s interior design?
SOBO’s interior design features rich, mahogany-toned oak paneling that imbues the space with warmth. This is complemented by vintage furniture, creating an intimate and contemporary environment.