About
Food
Master Sushi, Shinya Nakano
A Sushi Master who trained in Kyoto with a fifth-generation sushi Master, later working his magic at Nobu and Kisume in Melbourne where he was awarded two-hats from Good Food Guide for his 18-course omakase style menu. Nakano delivers a food style inspired by kaiseki philosophy, one of the most prestigious dining experiences in Japan, following a deep-rooted set of guidelines including that your food must represent the area that surrounds you.
Landscape
Master Gardner, Shinya Ueda
Guided by zen design principals, Ueda is a second-generation Master Gardner whose work expands the Japanese dining experience into the surrounding landscape. The KareSanSui (dry gravel garden) was designed to symbolise Lake Burley Griffin while the intentional lighting which frames the building and walkways is designed to emulate a stone lantern from a traditional Japanese garden.
Design
Keizo Okamoto, Odd Design
Traditional architecture and dramatic interiors by world-renowned company, Odd Design. The KOTO design preserves and revitalises the half-a-century old, Japan-heritage architecture of The Lobby; taking advantage of the strength and symmetry of the original plan. The juxtaposition of the materials expresses Japanese aesthetics Wabi-Sabi; the acceptance of transience and imperfection.
Location
The National Triangle
Located in The Lobby building in one Canberra’s most prominent location on King George Terrace, KOTO is an integral part of the National Triangle’s new precinct, The Lawns of The Lobby. KOTO has been designed to protect the legacy of The Lobby building and continue the hospitality history in the 50-year-old Pavilion, including private dining.
