American firm Rockwell Group used teak panelling, oxidised copper and tropical plants to create a warm and inviting atmosphere in a Manhattan eatery serving Indonesian cuisine.

The Wayan occupies a linear, storefront space on Spring Street in New York's Nolita neighbourhood.
Led by chefs Cedric and Ochi Vongerichten, the 84-seat restaurant offers Indonesian dishes with a French influence, such as roasted akuna cod and chicken satay.

New York studio Rockwell Group designed the 2,000 square feet (186 square metres) space to have a "tropical-meets-downtown vibe". Finishes and decor inspired by Southeast Asia are incorporated throughout.

The exterior consists of large sheets of glass set within oxidised-copper frames. Laser-cut screens line the top and bottom of the facade. A glazed door leads into the dining area, while a traditional Indonesian wooden door provides access to the restaurant's below-grade service area.

Guests step into a slender front room with a wooden ceiling and brick walls coated with a milky whitewash. Wooden tables are paired with tan leather chairs. Perforated lighting fixtures cast speckled light across the tables and walls.

In one corner, a curved banquette is encircled by skinny, totem-like sculptures from Indonesia. A contemporary glass chandelier hangs overhead.
"The custom light fixture composed of clustered, hand-painted glass globes casts beautiful shadows at night and adds warmth during the day," the team said.

The bar ...