Bridgetown, Barbados
BlackStar Bajan Kitchen and Lab
Spring 2025 (Mar-May)
Blackstar Bajan Kitchen and Lab establishes a modern space and program, while bringing a familiar feeling for the Bajan people. The design draws inspiration from Barbados' traditional Chattel style house. Reflecting the island's strong cultural identity and sense of freedom in the vernacular. Evoking a sense of pride and familiarity among locals, where the celebration of freedom is at the very core of the people.
Just south of Bridgetown's historic port, Blackstar Bajan Kitchen adds a modern twist to the classic materials found in construction all over the island. Fiber Cement Board lines the facade to provide that classic chattel style as a long-lasting finish. The BlackStar Bajan Kitchen incorporates classic passive architecture in a modern application. Placing traditional louvered shutters used to defend buildings from the intense Caribbean sun and bring the ocean breeze to cool the spaces is utilized on all sides. The restaurant's kitchen lab gives BlackStar chefs' space to experiment with local plant life, using ingredients grown on-site via vertical gardens on the roof. This strengthens the collaboration between chefs and agricultural partners on the island. Ensuring the freshest and highest quality ingredients for the Island's community.