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Interior Design Project Info

OITOM Restaurant: A Harmonious Culinary Journey Embracing Bornean Heritage

OITOM, a fine dining restaurant nestled in the heart of Sabah, Malaysia, reflects the rich heritage of its owner, Chef Raphael Lee, who is proudly of Kadazan descent. Named after the local Kadazan word for black, OITOM embraces indigenous Bornean flavors and celebrates the bounty of local produce. Like an artist's canvas, the restaurant masterfully presents the art of fine dining on each plate, providing a gastronomic experience that is both captivating and memorable.

Collaborating with Wowspace

In pursuit of his vision for OITOM, Chef Raphael Lee partnered with Wowspace, a renowned design firm known for their expertise in crafting immersive and culturally sensitive spaces. Wowspace's creative prowess brought life to the interior design, blending the rich traditions of Sabah with a contemporary touch, resulting in a space that resonates with both locals and international guests.

Rungus LongHouse Concept

Inspired by the traditional Rungus LongHouse concept, Wowspace and Chef Raphael Lee designed the layout of OITOM Restaurant. This architectural style, intrinsic to the Rungus people of Sabah, divides the longhouse into two distinct areas: the communal gallery (apad) on the left flank and the compartment area (Ongkob) on the right flank. The central partition, Ruai, separates the communal area, Lansang, from the cooking and cleaning area, Ropukan, and Salow, evoking the essence of a traditional longhouse.

Embracing Bornean Architectural Elements

Remaining true to the authentic Rungus LongHouse design, Wowspace integrated indigenous Bornean architectural elements into OITOM's interior. Vertical wooden members symbolize the elevated stilted construction characteristic of traditional longhouses, adding a touch of cultural authenticity to the space.

Cultural Details and Bornean-Nordic Aesthetics

The design incorporated details such as the flooring pattern inspired by the distinctive split bamboo or nibung pattern found in Rungus culture. Additionally, the iconic Rungus beadwork adorned a feature wall, showcasing meticulous wooden beadwork that adds cultural opulence to the ambiance. The creative approach, known as Bornean-Nordic, introduced by Wowspace, brought a blend of minimalist Nordic style and warm Bornean textures and hues, creating a welcoming atmosphere that compliments the restaurant's identity.

Palm Leaves in Hanging Light Fixtures

As a tribute to the traditional longhouse's roofing materials, Wowspace's design incorporated hanging light fixtures resembling dry palm leaves from sago or nipah trees. These fixtures add a touch of nostalgia while beautifully illuminating the space.


OITOM Restaurant stands as a testament to Chef Raphael Lee's unwavering commitment to preserving and sharing Sabah's indigenous heritage through the art of fine dining, in collaboration with Wowspace. The restaurant's thoughtful design, inspired by the Rungus LongHouse concept and enriched with Bornean-Nordic aesthetics, provides a harmonious setting for patrons to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates both tradition and innovation.

With each plate that leaves the kitchen, OITOM captures the essence of Sabah, inviting guests to savor not only the tantalizing flavors but also the soul-stirring stories of a region deeply rooted in history and culture. The partnership with Wowspace has left an indelible mark on the vibrant tapestry of Sabah's culinary and design landscape, offering a unique and unforgettable dining experience.

Interior Design Works Included

Interior Design Project Areas

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