Makoto Japanese Steakhouse

Illustration | Visual Design

Role: Art Direction and Illustration

Software: Photoshop and Illustrator

The artwork I created for Makoto's restaurant was my first large scale freelance project. The client requested custom designs to be displayed and framed in traditional soji screens throughout their teppanyaki steakhouse. While researching ideas for the proposal, I was inspired by Japanese Ukiyo-e masters of the late nineteenth century. The end result was an elegant installation acrylic prints that fit perfectly with the existing decor and added a beautiful ambience to the interior.

Project Overview

Inspiration

At the time, in 2014, this was my first large scale project. After building a rapport with the client to guage what they liked and tour the restaurant to get a feel for the interior design and decor, I knew exactly what style I wanted to work towards. My research process began with immersing myself in traditional Japanese art—drawing inspiration from Ukiyo-e masters such as Hokusai and Hiroshige.

It was challenging to create 8 separate pieces of art and also be consistent enough to flow throughout the restaurant without clashing with any of the existing decor. The result of careful planning, sketching, and attention to detail led to a beautiful display of classical woodblock style prints that completely rejuvenated the interior.

Execution

  1. Work with client to gather insight and ideas for the project.
  2. Conduct research for inspiration.
  3. Sketch ideas and rough drafts for initial presentation.
  4. Refine each illustration in illustrator and Photoshop.
  5. Collaborate with print specialists for proper materials and prepare files.
Makotos acrylic panel illustration showcase 1 Makotos acrylic panel illustration showcase 2 Inside Makoto Japanese Steakhouse with illustrated acrylic panels on wall 1 Inside Makoto Japanese Steakhouse with illustrated acrylic panels on wall 2 Inside Makoto Japanese Steakhouse with illustrated acrylic panels on wall 3 Inside Makoto Japanese Steakhouse with illustrated acrylic panels on wall 4 Inside Makoto Japanese Steakhouse with illustrated acrylic panels on wall 5