defining a brand

Wild Wasabi
2022
Nashville, TN

Problem:

This long-operating neighborhood Sushi restaurant was needing a makeover to stay relevant in Nashville’s rapidly growing Cummin’s Station. The successful concept had outgrown the space. Back-of-house storage and a makeshift office spilled out into the dining room. Rethinking the layout was a huge priority.

The bigger challenge was one of brand voice. The original design had no clear personality, so helping define who Wild Wasabi is and what that looks like became priority one.

With a loyal base of neighborhood regulars, it was important to elevate and modernize the space without alienating them with something too formal or cold. Maintaining an approachable vibe while leveling up the cool factor was a special challenge.

Solution:

To enhance functionality and aesthetics, the unused portion of the dining room was walled off for additional back-of-house space, addressing storage and office needs. The sushi counter underwent improvements to optimize workflow and elevate the guest experience.

Screen walls create spatial definition and signage opportunities. A reworked seating plan improves circulation and flexibility. Playing off their existing graphic brand, we combined deep red accents with classic Japanese aesthetics—clean lines, light wood tones, rice paper partitions, woven reed shades, and shadows as form.

To infuse a fresh and casual vibe, full wall murals adorn the dining room, featuring the iconic “Great Wave off Kanagawa” in black and white on one end and a custom “Wisteria Maiden” by Japanese American artist Juuri on the other.

My role:

  • Interior Brand Development*

  • Concept Development

  • Space Planning

  • Food Service Equipment Layout

  • Design Development*

  • Custom millwork

  • FF&E

  • Sketchup Model & Renderings

  • Construction Documents

  • Art Curation & Procurement

*Indicates collaboration w/ Principle Designer

Design by Xan Creative
Architecture by Remick Architecture
Build by DZL
Millwork by Mesa
Mural by Juuri
Photography by Xan Creative

Preserving its trustworthy essence, the remodeled Wild Wasabi introduces fresh & modern elements, maximizing staff workflow, enhancing seating, and fostering an engaging connection between chefs and guests in a tastefully inspired Japanese design.

Sketchup

Before

After

Before

After

The works featured in this portfolio were created in collaboration during my time as Senior Interior Designer at Xan Creative.

This portfolio is intended as a brief preview of the creative roles I had during that time.

Full construction documents and additional information are available upon request.