In 2023, stof. introduced Confier, a contemporary Korean-French fine dining establishment, near Seoul Station, building upon its success in Dosan Park. With a vision centered on culinary innovation and visual artistry, Confier aimed to redefine the gastronomic experience within its spatial confines.

Conceptualization: Breaking the Fourth Wall

Stof. endeavored to materialize Confier’s gastronomic philosophy, emphasizing the transformation of food into a culinary masterpiece. Drawing inspiration from theater, where the barrier between the audience and the stage is known as the “fourth wall,” Stof. sought to blur these boundaries, immersing diners in an interactive culinary spectacle. The kitchen, akin to a theatrical stage, was conceived as a dynamic space for culinary performance, transcending passive observation.

Spatial Narrative: The Theatrical Journey

Upon entering Confier, patrons are enveloped in a theatrical narrative, akin to traversing a stage. A dimly lit corridor leads to distinct spatial zones: the reception area (Backstage), reminiscent of a backstage setting; the bustling main kitchen (Main stage), where culinary artistry takes center stage; and the dining area (Auditorium), arranged in a theater-inspired layout. Notably, a mirrored structure above the front kitchen allows guests to witness the final plating process from any vantage point, enhancing the immersive dining experience.

Design Aesthetics: A Symphony of Textures

While the overarching ambiance of Confier exudes a dark and enigmatic aura, the space is punctuated by a myriad of textures and finishes, evoking the sensory richness of gastronomy. From yakisugi charred wood, travertine stone, and marble accents to the warmth of red copper and the traditional artistry of Korean brush painting (chilbo), each element contributes to a harmonious tapestry of hues and textures, resonating with the theme of culinary theater.

In essence, Confier Restaurant stands as a testament to stof.’s ingenuity in merging culinary artistry with spatial design, offering diners a transformative journey into the realm of gastronomic theater.