WILDSAGE RESTAURANT
The client’s brief was both clear and evocative: to create a space where patrons could
gather over meals, linger in conversation, or simply pause for a moment of quietude.
The vision demanded a seamless integration of indoor and outdoor realms, a balance of
youthfulness and timelessness, and a spatial narrative where every corner held its own
distinct character.
Earthy soul, modern spirit
The design language adopted for Wildsage may best be described as contemporary with an earthy soul. While modern in layout and detailing, the project is deeply anchored in the use of natural materials, handcrafted finishes, and warm tones. These elements collectively lend the space an approachable and human sensibility. Inspiration for the design stemmed from the name itself – Wildsage – which conjured imagery of freshness, rawness, and serenity. This conceptual grounding led to a design ethos centred on nature, tactility, and spatial flow. The intention was to cultivate an environment that felt both open and cocooned, achieved through the use of textures such as wood, stone, and greenery. The deliberate interplay between open-roof and closed-roof zones was a key strategy to allow the space to ‘breathe’, while maintaining comfort across different seasons.
Earthy soul, modern spirit
The design language adopted for Wildsage may best be described as contemporary with an earthy soul. While modern in layout and detailing, the project is deeply anchored in the use of natural materials, handcrafted finishes, and warm tones. These elements collectively lend the space an approachable and human sensibility. Inspiration for the design stemmed from the name itself – Wildsage – which conjured imagery of freshness, rawness, and serenity. This conceptual grounding led to a design ethos centred on nature, tactility, and spatial flow. The intention was to cultivate an environment that felt both open and cocooned, achieved through the use of textures such as wood, stone, and greenery. The deliberate interplay between open-roof and closed-roof zones was a key strategy to allow the space to ‘breathe’, while maintaining comfort across different seasons.
Fluid spaces, thoughtful zoning
Spatially, Wildsage is configured across two levels. The lower floor spills out into al fresco pockets, while the first floor accommodates a blend of open-air and semi- enclosed dining experiences. This zoning enhances the café’s versatility – from casual coffees to intimate family gatherings or private dinners. Circulation within the space is fluid, with gentle transitions from interior to exterior ensuring a sense of openness without fragmentation.
The principal challenge encountered during the project lay in addressing climate- related concerns, particularly with regard to rainfall and the partial openness of the structure. Careful planning of drainage systems and surface finishes was imperative to ensure durability while retaining aesthetic coherence. Striking a balance between openness and practicality required meticulous detailing, ultimately enabling the design to fulfil both functional and atmospheric goals.
Spatially, Wildsage is configured across two levels. The lower floor spills out into al fresco pockets, while the first floor accommodates a blend of open-air and semi- enclosed dining experiences. This zoning enhances the café’s versatility – from casual coffees to intimate family gatherings or private dinners. Circulation within the space is fluid, with gentle transitions from interior to exterior ensuring a sense of openness without fragmentation.
The principal challenge encountered during the project lay in addressing climate- related concerns, particularly with regard to rainfall and the partial openness of the structure. Careful planning of drainage systems and surface finishes was imperative to ensure durability while retaining aesthetic coherence. Striking a balance between openness and practicality required meticulous detailing, ultimately enabling the design to fulfil both functional and atmospheric goals.
Crafted calm
In terms of construction techniques and materiality, the project drew upon local craftsmanship and an honest, tactile palette. Exposed brick, natural stone cladding, terrazzo, handmade tiles, P.O.P finishes, wallpaper, bamboo mesh, wooden battens, and custom-designed furniture all contribute to the space’s identity. Lighting was curated with a layered approach – warm, ambient fixtures enliven the interiors, while softer lighting outdoors creates an inviting ambience in the evenings. Each material was selected not only for its visual appeal but also for its ability to age gracefully.
Colour, too, played a crucial role in enhancing the spatial experience. The palette remains grounded in earthy, muted tones – terracotta, sage green, charcoal, and warm wood. These hues foster calmness and continuity, while moments of vibrancy appear in the form of patterned tiles and lively upholstery, adding a youthful touch. Indoor plants and outdoor greens are not mere decorative accents, but intrinsic to the identity of Wildsage, softening architectural edges and reinforcing its connection to nature.
Among the many elements of the project, the transition between indoor and outdoor areas stands out as a particular triumph. The experience of sitting beneath dappled light in the courtyard contrasts beautifully with the intimacy of the upstairs corners, yet the design binds these experiences into a cohesive whole. This duality of openness and intimacy underscores the project’s deeper value.
In terms of construction techniques and materiality, the project drew upon local craftsmanship and an honest, tactile palette. Exposed brick, natural stone cladding, terrazzo, handmade tiles, P.O.P finishes, wallpaper, bamboo mesh, wooden battens, and custom-designed furniture all contribute to the space’s identity. Lighting was curated with a layered approach – warm, ambient fixtures enliven the interiors, while softer lighting outdoors creates an inviting ambience in the evenings. Each material was selected not only for its visual appeal but also for its ability to age gracefully.
Colour, too, played a crucial role in enhancing the spatial experience. The palette remains grounded in earthy, muted tones – terracotta, sage green, charcoal, and warm wood. These hues foster calmness and continuity, while moments of vibrancy appear in the form of patterned tiles and lively upholstery, adding a youthful touch. Indoor plants and outdoor greens are not mere decorative accents, but intrinsic to the identity of Wildsage, softening architectural edges and reinforcing its connection to nature.
Among the many elements of the project, the transition between indoor and outdoor areas stands out as a particular triumph. The experience of sitting beneath dappled light in the courtyard contrasts beautifully with the intimacy of the upstairs corners, yet the design binds these experiences into a cohesive whole. This duality of openness and intimacy underscores the project’s deeper value.
Wildsage’s unique selling proposition lies in its versatility without dilution of character. It
gracefully evolves with the time of day – from the optimism of morning light to the
tranquillity of evening glow – adapting in mood while maintaining its essence. The
design supports this dynamic rhythm effortlessly.
Ultimately, Wildsage is a space about slowing down. Every decision – from material selection to spatial arrangement – was guided by a desire to encourage stillness, connection, and quiet moments. It is not a space curated for aesthetic appeal alone, but one shaped to evoke feeling – comfort, grounding, and a gentle escape into nature, right within the city.
Ultimately, Wildsage is a space about slowing down. Every decision – from material selection to spatial arrangement – was guided by a desire to encourage stillness, connection, and quiet moments. It is not a space curated for aesthetic appeal alone, but one shaped to evoke feeling – comfort, grounding, and a gentle escape into nature, right within the city.