50 Norman: A Japanese Culinary and Design Destination in Brooklyn by Schemata Architects + Jo Nagasaka

50 Norman, designed by Schemata Architects in collaboration with Jo Nagasaka, is a hybrid cultural and culinary complex located in the heart of Greenpoint, Brooklyn. Completed in 2022, the 325 m² project fuses Japanese craftsmanship, architectural reuse, and innovative global logistics into a seamless retail and dining experience. The space houses three Japanese concept brands: House Brooklyn, a Japanese-French fusion restaurant; CIBONE, a curated lifestyle shop featuring ceramics and artisan tools; and Okume, a renowned seafood store originating from Tokyo’s historic Tsukiji market.

Transcultural Craftsmanship Meets Adaptive Design

The design challenge was to bring authentic Japanese aesthetics and quality to an overseas context, without resorting to overly simplified or generalized forms. Instead of adapting to local norms, the architects aimed to preserve the refined material sensibility and structural detail typical of their work in Japan.

The project introduced a unique construction concept called “DEKASEGI” — a method of salvaging high-quality wood from deconstructed Japanese buildings, reducing its size for shipment, and reassembling it on-site with the help of Japanese artisans. This method not only minimized material waste but also maintained the tactile authenticity of aged timber, complete with traditional joints and patina.

Building in a Global Crisis

Planning and fabrication for 50 Norman began during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when global supply chains were disrupted, and transportation costs surged. Initially designed for shipping via sea freight, the materials eventually had to be air-freighted due to extended delays. This led to clever packing strategies using custom-built crates, which were later repurposed as modular display stands within the interiors. Local fabrication was supported by TANK, a construction firm known for their skill with FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic), which was adapted to fit American construction standards while maintaining a handmade character.

Interior Experience and Material Storytelling

Inside, the architecture celebrates raw textures, exposed beams, and a palette of reclaimed materials. The spaces feel both grounded and elevated — a rare fusion of Japanese minimalism and Brooklyn industrial heritage. Spatially, the design encourages slow circulation and tactile engagement, from open kitchen counters and hand-built shelving to the visible integration of reused materials.

50 Norman is more than just a place to dine or shop; it is a cultural translation of Japanese design values, executed with precision, resilience, and sustainability at its core.

All Photographs are works of GION, Schemata Architects / 50 Norman team