Asia Designers Directory - Dining in the 70s at FOOL

At Boon Tat Street, Singapore, FOOL is a wine bar/restaurant that emits a relaxing vibe. HuiDesigns collaborated with their client, Chef Rishi, in conceptualising his dream of creating a 70s motif dining area. Chef Rishi’s collection of artwork, posters, and design elements of the era has spurred HuiDesigns to work on the design concept.

Carlo Scarpa’s 60s and 70s interiors and the 70s sunken lounge are the main inspirations for the venue, as well as references from the period’s colour schemes and the iconic wavelike psychedelic patterns.

: Photo Credits: HuiDesigns

The original columns and concrete beams are exposed to visually delineate the spaces, with the orange glass panels attached to partially edged in teak wood for enhancement. This gives the space a rhythmic pattern with a feeling of walking through portals.

The dining area emits a warm 70s living room vibe made of exposed, rough textured cement grey bricks, raw cement screed walls, and terrazzo vinyl flooring. Locally bought eclectic vintage hanging lights are installed to give a hint of kitsch. Chef Rishi’s own ‘Egon Schiele-esque’ drawings and other artworks are adorned on the wall for display.

Customers are given a choice of alcove seating for two or banquette seating within the restaurant’s intimate setting. Both seatings have lounge sofas that run along the wall which provide a cosy and comfortable feeling during meal time. Bar patrons have the luxury of sitting in the booth seats which take on the iconic 70s wave patterns.

: Photo Credits: HuiDesigns

The elements in the dining area will direct the focus to the chef’s counter. With the bulkhead cladding in a psychedelic iridescent metal panel and the elevated floor, the counter looks identical to a stage. Customers can sit at the turquoise bar to witness the baristas at work.

One of the major highlights of this establishment is the colour-blocked acrylic skylight which imitates a chapel’s stained glass. Rays of natural sunlight from above highlight the 70s vintage Kazuhide Takahama-designed Seville sofa.