KT Interior Architectural Studio Serves Up a Restaurant Space That Turns Dark and Moody into a Spotlight on Exceptional Dining
In a city known for its striking vistas and world-class dining, it takes something truly special to turn heads. Enter COY, a restaurant with all the necessary ingredients to offer guests a fine-dining experience with a focus on the ocean, age-old African flavours, and a moody atmosphere that feels exquisitely curated yet comfortably relaxed.
While some may view being tucked away as a disadvantage, COY embraces its discreet location with a knowing wink. Nestled between two footbridges, this contemporary space not only offers diners exceptional South African cuisine from celebrated chef Ryan Cole but also provides front-row seats to the majestic Table Mountain and the historic Robinson Dry Dock, dating back to 1882.
The intrigue of a dark embrace
The design narrative unfolds an intriguing tale of contrasts. Drawing inspiration from the striking imagery of charred, blackened protea bushes — a distinctly African muse — KT Interior Architectural Studio has created an environment where matte black surfaces and sandblasted textures come together to form an atmosphere that is intimately bold. The restaurant’s interior cleverly mimics the inside of a camera, with dark, dramatic surfaces directing attention to two focal points: Chef Cole’s artfully-plated dishes and the captivating harbour views. In this design, even the most subtle details contribute to a composition that proudly embraces a dark and moody colour palette.
Crafting complexity from simplicity
The design brief called for a contemporary Afro-chic aesthetic imbued with understated elegance. The space blends rusted steel accents, chunky oak tabletops, and textured black flooring, while carefully-curated African art pieces infuse soul into the setting.
Notably, the studio’s use of pine to clad both walls and ceiling adds warmth and texture, transforming what could have been an austere space. The design approach mirrors the culinary experience, showcasing familiar ingredients presented with fresh creativity. Guests can look forward to dishes such as fermented amadumbe sourdough, seared linefish with mussels, and Xai-Xai chargrilled squid, along with a curated wine list offering South Africa’s finest.
Clearing the hurdles
The project wasn’t without its hurdles. The building, originally not intended for restaurant use, required clever engineering solutions to accommodate kitchen equipment and an open wood-fire cooker. The team also tackled the complex task of programming lighting to create the perfect atmosphere throughout each area, whilst the bar’s domed joinery tested the limits of bespoke craftsmanship. A particularly striking element is the marble used in the bar, kitchen, fireplace, and private dining area, which resembles a cross-section of Earth itself — its veins and colours adding a natural richness that perfectly complements the restaurant’s understated identity.
While it might be surrounded by an abundance of dining options, COY proves that sometimes the best experiences are indeed hidden in plain sight. Once discovered, this is a destination that rewards the curious with an unforgettable fusion of design, culture, and cuisine.
This article is an extract from our 2024/25 Coffee Table Edition. Click here to read the full issue.
