Location
SEA Airport, Washington
Size
2,030 SF
Timeframe
2017
This proposal envisioned a new Wasabi Bistro location at SEA International Airport’s Concourse A, translating the sophisticated yet approachable dining experience of the Belltown restaurant into a high-traffic travel hub. The design combined a neutral palette of grays, blackened steel, and warm wood tones with select bold accents to create a refined backdrop that allowed the artistry of the food to take center stage. Positioned at a prominent intersection of the concourse, the layout encouraged both quick grab-and-go service and a more leisurely dine-in experience at the sushi counter or bar.
A storefront of locally-fabricated blackened steel introduced the space, while columns clad in mosaic tile framed the entry. Inside, guests could order directly at the counter, watching sushi chefs prepare meals to order, or take a seat at the bar for a craft cocktail. Quartz countertops added a layer of elegance, while large-format Norr floor tiles offered a dark, VOC- and toxin-free surface that contrasted with the concourse flooring.
Wood grain laminate, chosen for its warmth and durability, carried both Greenguard Gold and SCS Indoor Advantage Gold certifications. Kitchen flooring contained over 24% pre-consumer recycled content, and the design incorporated high-performance acoustic ceiling panels from Armstrong that were fully accessible for maintenance.
Although Wasabi was not ultimately selected by the Port of Seattle for the tenant space, the project showcased a fusion of brand authenticity, operational efficiency, and sustainable design. By adapting Wasabi Seattle’s established identity for the unique challenges and opportunities of an airport environment, the concept offered travelers a fresh, vibrant, and memorable dining experience at the heart of Concourse A.
