Tombo Den

Overview

Illuminating Spaces: A Conversation with Antumbra’s Giuseppe & Maria

We sat down with Giuseppe and Maria from Antumbra Light Design to discuss their latest project, Japanese inspired restaurant Tombo Den designed by DKO Architecture.

At Antumbra Lighting Design, Founder Giuseppe Simone and Director Maria Khoury are redefining spaces through the art of light. Giuseppe’s collaborations with renowned architects and designers, including John Pawson and Zaha Hadid Architects, showcase his ability to seamlessly integrate light into architecture with beauty and meaning. Maria brings extensive experience across commercial, hospitality, and residential projects, working alongside Australia’s top lighting designers and design firms to explore lighting’s transformative potential. Together, they craft environments that are functional, emotional, and inspiring.

MLP – What was your approach to the lighting design?

For Tombo Den, we drew profound inspiration from the enchanting essence of “Tokyo at Midnight,” where each corner of the city reveals a unique story, intricately woven through the dynamic interplay of light and shadow. This concept guided every aspect of our design, resulting in an immersive environment that captivates and intrigues.

Lighting serves as a pivotal element in our vision, establishing an inviting yet mysterious atmosphere. We meticulously crafted layers of illumination, highlighting hidden details that surprise and delight diners. This approach not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also enriches the overall dining experience, encouraging guests to explore and engage with their surroundings. In essence, our design transforms the dining space into a narrative journey, where each moment is illuminated by the magic of Tokyo’s nocturnal charm.

MLP – What lighting products were specified for the project, and what made them the right choice?

For this project, we chose ORLUNA downlights and track-mounted spotlights for their exceptional high CRI, versatile range of beam angles, and commitment to sustainability. Incorporating environmentally conscious products is a responsibility every designer should prioritise in their work.

MLP – How does the lighting enhance the overall experience of the space?

Lighting played a key role in this project, particularly given the challenges posed by the narrow site conditions. Our primary aim was to use lighting strategically to highlight focal points and establish distinct destination areas within the space. Every corner of Tombo Den features unique details that, combined with the thoughtfully designed interiors, come together to offer customers a truly immersive and memorable experience.

MLP – What key aspects of this project would you like people to know?

Food is the Hero: In all Lucas Group restaurants, the food itself is the hero. For this reason, we have used CRI98 products to accent tables so that every dish would look incredible under this light.

Customisation: Due to site constraints and mechanical ducts in the same locations were we had allowed for ceiling mounted spotlights we had to come up with an alternative solution with only 6 weeks to final completions. Antumbra and MLP Light have worked together to come up with a custom wall mounted Orluna Cloud Mini spot to highlight the artworks. Everything started with a sketch and in 6 weeks the products were on site. Very proud of what was achieved in such short timeframe!

MLP – How did MLP contribute to ensuring the process ran smoothly?

MLP have done an amazing job to support us during the process. During the design phase they have supported us providing all the information we needed along with working samples.

The project had very tight timeframe and MLP have delivered all products on time and liaised with Client to ensure they were happy with the outcome.

Check out Tombo Den next time you are down on Chapel St in Melbourne, or online at www.tomboden.com.au