The creation of renowned restaurateur, Rainer Becker, Oblix was the first restaurant to open at London’s latest iconic building, The Shard. Occupying the 32nd floor, the restaurant and bar lounge offers an ideal space for visitors with a head for heights. The stand-out feature of the space has not been lost on Rainer, who – with the help of prominent Italian architect and designer, Claudio Silvestrin – complements the awe-inspiring views of the capital in the elegant and sophisticated interior.
Rainer’s traditional focus on modern Japanese cuisine and culture – as personified in his Zuma and Roka restaurants – has been sidelined in favour of the urban West for Oblix. Taking inspiration from the skylines of London and New York, Rainer has created a high-end grill which embodies the upscale, sophisticated dining that has become his benchmark.
Rainer’s collaboration with Claudio – who counts Sloane Street’s Armani store and Soho’s Princi cafe on his London portfolio – was, in terms of style, a match made in heaven. The collaboration has resulted in an interior that, as well as reflecting the designer’s style, embodies the essence of The Shard itself – futuristic yet timeless, polished yet simple, dramatic yet unembellished.
The interior brings a concept of simplified luxury to the fore, providing a framework for the panoramic views of the city without attempting to distract or overpower. Split into two sections – a 100-seat restaurant and 100-cover lounge and bar – the space features warm earth tones and distinctive geometric shapes throughout, creating an feeling of comfort and enduring sophistication. The perfect complement to one of London’s most iconic pieces of architecture to date.
