Situated in a prime location on the waters edge of Sliema’s harbour in Malta, Tora is a restaurant of fusion, where contemporary interiors meet atmospheric dark finishes, not to mention the authenticity of its Asian food.
The restaurant is experiential in its execution and so the lighting design was developed to set the ambiance whilst illuminating details – achieving a level of modern sophistication that fuses with Malta’s wider historical context.
Seamlessly transitioning from day to night, the terrace coordinates with the interior aesthetic, yet juxtaposes with the setting of the Old Town beyond. Elevated by optical directional uplights set in a linear formation, the brickwork is purposefully grazed to highlight the modern materiality of the restaurant.
Tora derives from the Japanese word for tiger and so it’s only fitting that a striking light installation of a white tiger proudly hails patrons as they enter the restaurant. Surface mounted track and spotlights provide ambient illumination and are completely flexible, with the ability to be repositioned to illuminate any number of table layouts below.
In the depths of the restaurant, a backlit bar lines the dark back wall, guiding the eye as it pans across the space. Nothing is superfluous, every fitting and fixture has been considered – decorative pendants above the bar bring a soft quality of light, whilst its façade has been gently washed with integrated linear illumination.
The private dining room has a contemporary flair with exposed brick and vibrant seating, supported by a considered lighting solution. Pendant lighting and integrated linear uplights evoke a sultry and moody tone that entices guests to dine comfortably under their diffuse glow.
Images © Eduardo M. Conde
— Guy Kornetzki
