New York-based Islyn Studio has looked to Washington DC's New Formalist architecture and "late-night Tokyo" to inform the interiors of this Japanese restaurant.

Uchi DC is Islyn Studio's second location for the restaurant group from chef Tyson Cole and Hai Hospitality, following the Uchiko outpost in Miami Beach.

In the US capital's Dupont Circle neighbourhood, the team led by designer Ashley Wilkins blended several local references with the brand's reverence for Japanese craftsmanship.

Influences included the New Formalist architecture of Edward Durell Stone – particularly the nearby National Geographic Society headquarters – as well as "Washington's glamorous, swinging-60s era of martinis, espionage, and political intrigue" according to the studio.

The strict rhythm of Stone's vertical lines is repeated in the two-tone wood panelling that wraps the main dining space.

Straight-stack clay tiles that wrap large columns also emphasise the ceiling height, weighted by dark stone flooring that runs throughout.

The restaurant is divided into several spaces that each has its own subtly different identity, created through the balance of colour and materials.

"Designed almost like a film, Uchi DC unfolds scene by scene, with each room carrying its own emotional cadence," the team said.

Marbled dark green stone forms the main bar, which is presided over by a huge circular paper lantern – a shape that repeats as ceiling coves in other areas.

Bookended by wooden lattice screens that again resemble a Stone facade, a sushi counter is accompanied by black leather stools and surrounded by dark, mottled green plasterwork.

Caramel-hued bench seating on either side and more banquettes along the large windows provide multiple options for diners.

Plenty of cosy corner nooks and intimate booths add to the atmospheric dining experience, aided by a variety of lighting designs – from angular sconces to cylindrical pendants.

"Saturated colour, low flattering light, layered intimacy, and deep, moody tones inspired by vintage film and the sensual cinematography of Wong Kar-wai create an environment that feels transportive rather than merely decorative," said the team.

"References to late-night Tokyo and neo-noir urbanism further reinforce the restaurant's dreamlike atmosphere."

In a private dining room, burl-like patterns across the ceiling are echoed in the rug, while the deep coral hues in both are repeated in the chair upholstery.

"Balancing precision and romance, the result is a richly atmospheric restaurant that feels cinematic in both mood and sequencing - honoring both Uchi's culinary philosophy and the city's layered identity," the studio said.

In other parts of the US, Uchi and Uchiko locations in Miami and Houston were designed by Michael Hsu, while the West Hollywood outpost was completed by ORA.

Islyn Studio's portfolio also includes a Brooklyn veterinary clinic and an Albuquerque food hall. In Manhattan, the studio's Now Now Hotel geared towards solo travellers and Brass restaurant were both shortlisted for Dezeen Awards last year.

The photography is by William Jess Laird.