A Japanese restaurant devoted to the precision of authentic sushi has found an unexpected home in the Caribbean. Taikun, conceived as part of an ongoing collaboration between The Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman and New-York based studio Champalimaud Design, unfolds as a carefully choreographed interplay of colour, texture and reflection, resulting in a space evocative of 1980s Tokyo.

In our design-focused interview, we speak to Courtney Brannan, Principal at Champalimaud Design, about the creative influences behind Taikun.

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What did you set out to achieve with the interiors of this space?

Our concept was tropical serenity meets Tokyo mogul. We set out to merge the lush, natural beauty of Grand Cayman with the moody neon glow of Tokyo – creating a space where vibrant natural textures meet buzzy energy. The result is an atmosphere that feels both wild and immersive: tropical, yet cinematic and alive with energy.

What was the inspiration behind the design concept?

Taikun takes inspiration from 1980s Tokyo, when the city’s sharply dressed tycoons walked and dined in chic style. We wanted to recreate that magical atmosphere which feels warm, indulgent and elegant.

Grand Cayman’s local culture and natural environment shape the textures and colours of the spaces. The restaurant’s spirit animal, a clever and mischievous cat, shows up throughout the dining room in humorous portraits painted by a local artist.

What materials did you use to bring the vision to life?

Referencing the rope-weaving traditions of Grand Cayman, textured sisal wallcovering was used as an accent throughout the space, while coconut tree chandeliers woven from rattan are installed overhead. An alabaster pendant casts a warm, ambient glow above the bar. In the dining room, Missoni-inspired zigzag weaves and bold stripes are complemented by chunky linen bullion-fringed drapery and bespoke handmade ceramic table lamps.

What aspects of the design are you most proud of?

We were excited to increase the restaurant’s seat count significantly, from 63 to about 75. A central grouping of banquettes in the new design has transformed the restaurant’s social experience, allowing larger groups to gather and yet feel a sense of intimacy. It all ties into the tycoon inspiration, where high-stakes business meetings and hushed conversations unfold under the warm glow of the restaurant.

How does the design reflect the F&B concept?

The design is both warm and refined, much like the hospitality experience of the restaurant and the entire Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman property.

Light-toned wooden dining tables and handmade ceramic lamps evoke the Japanese focus of the food and beverage programme. Curved banquettes execute the restaurant concept’s lounge inspiration with a vibe that is both intimate and social.