With so many dining options at the newly opened Jewel Changi Airport, F&B tenants must offer more than just a satisfying meal. Jewel Changi Airport’s management put in place several design guidelines for the establishments at Jewel, including the need to offer unique interior designs and multiple dine-in settings. Sama Sama, a restaurant serving authentic Indonesian fare on the third floor, checks all the boxes.

Designed by Monocot Studio, Sama Sama has a laidback and welcoming ambience, thanks in part to its broad frontage, grounded material palette, and a clean and unfettered aesthetic. The design studio wanted to represent the Indonesian design aesthetic and yet give it a contemporary slant, making a conscious decision not to appear overtly traditional.

This is especially apparent in the restaurant’s material palette; a mix of terracotta, natural rattan, glass and wood.

One of the notable features in Sama Sama is the wall behind the service counter at the front of the establishment. By carefully layering hand-cut terracotta tiles, Monocot formed a 3D-effect wall that is tactile and visually intriguing. This wall becomes both the backdrop for the dining area and a welcoming frontage for passers-by.

Other subtle additions to the Indonesian aesthetic include the rattan-back furniture, ‘cotton ball’ pendant lamps and artwork made by framing ikat fabric on the wall.

The unit itself is subtly divided into three functional dining spaces, each with its own personality and catering to different dining habits. The main dining area takes up the bulk of the establishment, and is fitted with standard-height dining tables and chairs. The right side of the restaurant has been designated as the lounge area and is furnished with a more relaxed selection of low-slung furniture in rattan and velvet.

The third zone in Sama Sama looks into the Rain Vortex feature at Jewel Changi Airport. Monocot designed this space for casual gatherings, where patrons can unwind while taking in the green vista. As such, cosy bench seats form a communal area for the guests.

Photography by Marc Tan / Studio Periphery.

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Owner: Bluewaves Empire
Interior Designer: Monocot Pte Ltd
Builder: Just Build Pte Ltd
Furniture Designer and Styling: Mikael and Merlien
Terrazzo Flooring: An Huat
Floral: Humid House