wabi-sabi principals come alive in abu dhabi
In Abu Dhabi’s Al Qana district, the newly completed Otaku Café by design studio Shell + Core marks a new evolution in the café‘s design narrative. While Otaku’s other UAE locations are defined by minimalist Japanese aesthetics, this waterfront venue in Abu Dhabi explores more experimental territory. The design blends raw materiality and fluid forms to create an atmospheric experience.
At the heart of the Otaku Café lies a strong influence from renowned Japanese architect Tadao Ando. Bold concrete volumes are juxtaposed with warm materials, creating a dialogue between the starkness of brutalist architecture and the softness of organic textures. The designers from Shell + Core retained key structural elements, transforming them into sculptural focal points within the space. A central column, partially wrapped in rich wood and strategically illuminated, casts delicate shadows across the aggregate concrete floor, offering a dramatic interplay of light and texture.
images © Bianca Studio
Otaku Café curated with concrete and burl wood
Otaku Café in Abu Dhabi distinguishes itself by integrating the wabi-sabi philosophy, which celebrates the beauty of imperfection. The designers at Shell + Core have emphasized the natural aging and evolution of materials like wood, concrete, and stone. A stunning feature of Californian burl wood introduces a sense of warmth and organic texture to the space. Vintage furniture pieces, carefully curated by the client, complement this aesthetic, enhancing the overall design with a sense of timeless elegance.
The waterfront setting plays a crucial role in the design of Otaku Café, influencing both the form and atmosphere of the space. Fluid, flowing shapes echo the natural movement of the water, while reflective surfaces and intentional lighting create dynamic patterns that shift with the changing light throughout the day. Large plants are strategically placed to define intimate zones without compromising the open and inviting simplicity of the overall space.
with Otaku Café, Shell + Core introduces a more experimental design compared to its other UAE locations
shell + core responds to the coastal context
As Shell + Core explains: ‘Carrying through the principles of wabi-sabi, OTAKU embraces the idea of ‘wisdom in natural beauty’; exposing the imperfection in raw materials such as wood, concrete and stone. Inspired by Tadao Ando architecture, flawed elements are left untouched, with emphasis on the process of forms taking shape.’ This design approach allows Otaku Café to embrace the imperfections of its materials, offering a space in Abu Dhabi that feels both thoughtfully crafted and deeply connected to its surroundings.
The interiors reflect a sense of fluidity and unbounded creativity. With its irregular shape and sea-view context, the café feels dynamic and alive, constantly shifting with the natural light. ‘Fluid forms feature throughout, alluding to the essence of the waterfront,’ notes the team. Reflective materials and considered lighting create a playful interaction between light and shadow, enhancing the depth of the space and emphasizing its ever-changing nature, while still retaining Otaku’s characteristic simplicity.
influenced by Tadao Ando’s architectural principles, bold concrete volumes contrast with warm materials
the design embraces wabi-sabi aesthetics by highlighting the beauty of imperfection in natural materials
a Californian burl wood feature adds warmth and organic texture to the space
