&Daughters Designs Jeju Restaurant in Vancouver with Basalt, Cork, and Thatch

Canadian studio &Daughters has completed Jeju, a Korean restaurant in Vancouver that blends traditional materials with a contemporary aesthetic. The interior features basalt, cork, concrete, thatch, and wood, creating a tactile and grounded atmosphere that reflects the volcanic island of Jeju, South Korea. These raw, unrefined materials are used in a refined way, with basalt stone walls, cork ceiling panels, and thatch accents evoking the island's natural landscape and heritage. The design aims to transport diners through materiality and texture, emphasizing authenticity and a connection to place. By pairing traditional Korean elements with modern design principles, &Daughters creates a space that feels both rooted and current. The project highlights a growing trend in hospitality design toward sensory-rich environments that tell a cultural story. For Vancouver's dining scene, Jeju offers a distinctive experience that stands out through its material honesty and cultural narrative. As restaurants compete for attention, such thoughtful, place-driven interiors can become a key differentiator, drawing customers seeking more than just a meal. The project demonstrates how design can deepen the dining experience and foster a stronger sense of place.