A blend of cultures and natural design at HOY! Natural Mexican Food in Lisbon

Lisbon exudes a magnetism that is difficult to compare with other cities in the world. Its authenticity stems from a history that lives on in the details of the architecture of its streets and buildings and that carries over to the present day in new venues and establishments. This is the example we bring you today: the restaurant HOY! Natural Mexican Food.

The architectural firm SD JM Arq was responsible for bringing this space to life, using our 20 equilateral triangle format in a mix of rust red and salmon colors (50% and 50%). This allows for simple tessellations or three-dimensional optical illusions, as you can see in the images.

The clay tiles are located in several focal points of the restaurant. They are the main element of the entire front of the bar, but they are also used intentionally to create Aztec-inspired shapes. Such is the case with the columns between which the coffee machine is located, which demonstrates the versatility of the model.

Meaningful design and architecture

But the choice of a natural element such as fired clay was not random. One of the key features of this restaurant is its commitment to natural, healthy Mexican food. Therefore, a design that reflects this taste for nature and sustainability is essential to achieve the desired atmosphere and complete the dining experience. This is accompanied by a modern and fresh venue, which is also decorated with natural materials beyond terracotta: textiles, wood, and vegetation.

The mix is one of the keys to the space, as described by one of the architects on the team responsible for this project. The incorporation of decorative aesthetic elements inspired by Mexican and Aztec themes fused with Western culture provides an eclectic look and a fusion of cultures.

On the one hand, the choice of clay symbolizes the importance of authenticity and proximity to the cuisine offered by the restaurant. On the other hand, the choice of different shapes such as triangles suggests the ceramic designs known in the Mexican universe. This is how a balance has been achieved between the culture of the city where this restaurant is located and Mexican culture, which is the star of the restaurant’s menu. A clear example of how meaningful mixing in interior design, in this case of shapes, materials, and colors, can achieve a magnificent result.