Water wall and pool
Kokoro Firenze Sushi Restaurant, Florence

Kokoro Firenze was born from the transformation of a building that had been vacant for years in the Galluzzo neighbourhood. The project completely redefines the layout, creating a sequence of spaces with distinct atmospheres. Each room takes on its own spatial register, while the overall experience centres on the outdoor space, conceived as a natural extension of the restaurant and a place of mediation with the surrounding residential context. The outdoor area is organised around a water system consisting of a pool and a water wall, which serve as a scenographic device and a spatial organising element. Water is used as an architectural material: it produces sound, reflections, and depth, contributing to the space's atmosphere. The water surface flows into a geometrically controlled pool, designed with a C-shaped profile and a depth of 20 cm. The water wall, 3 meters high and 1.5 meters wide, is generated by a custom-made upper overflow blade made of AISI 316L steel, which evenly distributes the flow along the water wall. The entire system operates by recirculation: the water is drawn in, filtered, and reintroduced into the circuit. Since it is an outdoor pool, surface skimmers have been integrated to capture leaves and impurities from the surrounding environment, ensuring a clean surface. Chemical parameters are controlled by an automatic pH/Redox dosing panel, which maintains stable water quality and maintains its clarity. The pump for the waterfall is installed in an underground technical enclosure within the basin, but set back from the water wall. This solution extends the recirculation path and promotes greater water movement and mixing, improving the overall efficiency of the system. The use of different types and formats of porcelain stoneware coverings by Ceramica Rondine (Italcer Group Spa) helps to coherently define the various interior and exterior areas, alternating standout surfaces with more neutral elements. The cladding thus becomes a design tool: it delineates, connects, and characterises. In the outdoor spaces, furnishings and plant masses are not merely decorative elements but spatial devices that filter views and mitigate sound propagation, creating an intimate and immersive microcosm. Kokoro Firenze represents a virtuous example of architectural regeneration, where material, water, and light all contribute to building a strong and contemporary identity. A place designed to be experienced and remembered, where the sensory experience becomes an integral part of the project.

GMRT Studio wishes to express its sincere gratitude for the fruitful collaboration established during the design of the external areas of the Kokoro restaurant, specifically regarding the water basin and fountain. The project was distinguished by an approach based on constant and constructive dialogue, which allowed every phase of the design process to be addressed with openness and a collaborative spirit. This synergy made it possible to identify shared design solutions while fully respecting the original ideas, implementing targeted and deliberate modifications to ensure that every aspect of the project functions effectively. We are very pleased with the care and attention dedicated to defining the execution details, addressed with precision and expertise, which significantly contributed to the overall quality of the project. We hope that this experience can serve as a solid foundation for future collaborations.

Architectural and interior design: GMRT Associati Outdoor design and construction: Esterni Outdoor Architecture Fountain systems design and installation: Forme d'Acqua Venice Fountains Photo credits: Ceramica Rondine e Italcer Spa