At the end of May, restaurant Haut opened in Ostend (BE). This new fine dining address by chef Dimitri Proost and manager/maître d'hôtel Randy Degroote is located on the 28th floor of Ostend's SKY Tower One, making it the highest restaurant in Belgium. Because of its special seaside location and unparalleled panorama as key assets, the interior design was created by TJIP. The portfolio of the Belgian interior architecture studio counts several residences by the sea and also here, the team provided for a refined interior which is serene and relaxing and allows all attention to the view and food experience.

In this project TJIP shows how clever alignment and balanced proportions not only ensure a better layout and organisation, but also introduce visual tranquillity. The materialisation also contributes to a harmonious interior. Natural stone, warm veneers and sandy textile tones were chosen to echo the surroundings. A bonus: the kitchen was also designed in the same style. And although the duo behind TJIP are art lovers, it appears to be the big absentee in restaurant Haut. That too is a conscious choice to keep the focus on the food experience.

Light plays an important role in TJIP's work. Since the interior architects believe that disconnecting does not mean losing touch with the outside world, a light daytime atmosphere during lunch hours and an intimate lighting plan towards the evening were deliberately used here. In the late hours, daylight is exchanged for atmospheric artificial light or even candlelight. Other special features are the outdoor terrace, the benches combining natural stone with upholstery in dark blue suede, and the private dining area with large bronze mirror that enlarges the space and - how could it be otherwise - allows everyone to enjoy the sea view. 

Another feature in this room: a state-of-the-art wine cabinet giving access to the gems from the wine selection. The sophisticated object reflects not only pure craftsmanship, but thanks to the combination of steel, wood and glass, also its surroundings. Once again, it shows the amazing leading role of the sea in restaurant Haut, even down to the smallest detail.