Iki Potts Point & St Leonards
Iki is a Japanese restaurant branding and interior design project by Vie Studio, developed to bring together multiple dining concepts under one unified hospitality identity. The project includes brand strategy, visual identity, and restaurant interior design for three complementary concepts — Iki Sushi, Ramen by Iki, and Iki Izakaya — located across Potts Point and St Leonards in Sydney.
Inspired by the Japanese philosophy of Iki (粋) — refined simplicity, effortless charm, and cultural depth — the brand was conceived as a flexible hospitality platform capable of expressing different dining experiences while maintaining a cohesive visual identity. Each venue represents a different interpretation of contemporary Japanese dining, from the precision of sushi service to the bold energy of ramen culture and the relaxed atmosphere of an izakaya.
The design approach centred on creating a visual language that could move seamlessly between brand and space. Graphic motifs inspired by motion, rhythm, and play were developed to support the energetic character of the brand, appearing across packaging, signage, and environmental graphics. The identity system allows each dining concept to express its own personality through colour, typography, and graphic variation while remaining recognisably part of the Iki family.
Iki Sushi St Leonards
Iki Sushi explores the rhythm and movement of sushi train dining through a clean and contemporary restaurant interior design. The space was designed to reflect the precision and craft of Japanese cuisine while maintaining an approachable and vibrant dining environment.
Graphic motifs inspired by motion, transit systems, and playful brand iconography appear throughout the interior and brand materials, reinforcing the dynamic nature of the sushi experience. Modular furniture, light-toned materials, and clear spatial planning support efficient service flow while maintaining visual clarity for guests.
The result is a sushi restaurant environment that balances operational efficiency with strong brand character, creating a lively yet refined dining destination.
Iki Ramen & Izakaya Potts Point
Ramen by Iki captures the bold and energetic spirit of Japanese ramen culture through a vibrant restaurant branding and interior design approach. The design embraces expressive graphics, bold colour contrasts, and illuminated signage to create a lively atmosphere inspired by urban ramen bars in Japan.
The space was designed to support quick service and high guest turnover while maintaining a strong visual identity that extends across packaging, environmental graphics, and digital touchpoints.
Ramen by Iki celebrates the spontaneity of ramen culture — casual, fast-paced, and full of character — delivering a memorable dining experience rooted in both flavour and atmosphere.
Iki Izakaya introduces a slower and more intimate dining experience inspired by traditional Japanese after-hours hospitality. In contrast to the vibrant ramen environment, the izakaya interior embraces warmer tones, layered textures, and atmospheric lighting.
The restaurant interior design encourages shared dining and social interaction, creating a welcoming setting for small plates, drinks, and conversation. Carefully balanced lighting and spatial composition create a relaxed yet contemporary interpretation of the izakaya tradition.
Together, the three venues demonstrate Vie Studio’s integrated approach to hospitality branding and restaurant design — where brand identity, interior architecture, and guest experience work together to shape memorable dining environments.