RESTAURANT IRIS BY NORM ARCHITECTS

Images courtesy of Norm Architects

Amidst the Striking Steel curves of the Building
1st publication on 23 Aug, 2024
Nestled within the floating art installation Salmon Eye and framed by the majestic Hardangerfjord in Norway, the Michelin-starred Restaurant Iris invites guests into a world of sustainable gourmet excellence. The restaurant’s interior, crafted by Norm Architects, masterfully contrasts and complements the innovative, ellipsoid architecture designed by Kvorning Design.

Upon arriving at Restaurant Iris after an unforgettable boat journey, guests can indulge in a set tasting menu that emphasizes sustainability, local ingredients, and the vibrant life beneath the sea. This extraordinary dining experience is further enhanced by breathtaking panoramic views of the fjord, glaciers, and majestic mountains.

The restaurant’s interior masterfully contrasts and complements the innovative and rather brutalist architecture of Salmon Eye. The undulating curves of the interior are complemented by bespoke furniture that harmonizes with the room’s smooth arches, avoiding the imposition of conventional rectangular pieces.

To enhance the sense of intimacy in this unusual location, the once-open room has been divided into smaller, more comforting spaces. This strategic division not only creates a hierarchy within the space but also piques curiosity, ensuring that guests discover the beauty of the restaurant gradually, rather than all at once upon entry.

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“Our location guides every step we take at Iris, and we want our guests to experience the fjord, the mountains, and the ever-changing elements in the same all-encompassing way that we do every day. Here, we have the great privilege of bringing our guests to the ingredients, instead of the other way around.”  – Restaurant Iris –

While the imposing steel construction speaks of strength and modernity, elements of warmth and comfort, such as walnut wood and plush carpets, create a homey, inviting setting that appeals to the human senses. This cozy retreat, set against the expansive ocean backdrop, offers an intimate dining experience in the often harsh Nordic climate.

The table setting is a tribute to the Nordic surroundings, featuring natural materials, earthy tones, and minimalist design that echo the raw beauty of the Hardangerfjord. It enhances the dining experience by grounding guests in the local landscape, setting the stage for a celebration of the deep connection between nature and cuisine.

The natural textures and flowing lines of walnut wood, combined with bespoke furniture and soft, curved elements, bring a sense of comfort and harmony to the space. This integration of organic materials enhances the tactile experience and connects guests to the surrounding natural beauty, reinforcing the restaurant’s commitment to sustainability and sensory immersion.

More than housing Restaurant Iris, Salmon Eye is a spectacular floating aquaculture visitor and information center located just outside Rosendal. The approx. 1000 sqm structure is an architectural marvel designed by Kvorning Design. Clad in stainless steel scales, it mimics the shiny, silvery skin of salmon, and glistens brightly in the fjord. The ellipsoid design of the building, resembling a fish’s eye, makes it a striking landmark visible from miles away, even from the air.

The Michelin-starred restaurant welcomes guests into a sustainable gourmet universe, led by acclaimed Danish chef Anika Madsen.