kyoto hotel room by kubo tsushima features a 'moon' light fixture that waxes and wanes

Industrial designer Keiji Takeuchi, based in Milan, has introduced a new line of pendant lamps named Lacquer, which draw inspiration from traditional Japanese lacquer bowls. These lamps, despite their contemporary release, possess a timeless aesthetic that could easily be mistaken for classic designs from the 1970s. The initial concept for the collection originated from Takeuchi's visualization of a Japanese lacquer bowl suspended upside down from the ceiling. This foundational idea led to the development of a small-sized pendant lamp, which subsequently expanded into a comprehensive collection featuring several larger variations. A key design element highlighted by Takeuchi is the intricate detail incorporated into the light diffuser. This component was meticulously crafted with a concave contour. This specific shaping ensures that the diffuser remains concealed within the lampshade when viewed from certain angles, maintaining the clean lines and aesthetic integrity of the design. Beyond its discreet appearance, this concave diffuser also serves a functional purpose: it effectively broadens the light distribution, spreading illumination across an impressive 180-degree wide angle. This thoughtful integration of form and function enhances both the visual appeal and practical utility of the lamps. The Lacquer collection is currently being manufactured and distributed by Nine Furniture, a European design brand. This collaboration brings Takeuchi's vision to a broader market, offering consumers a lighting solution that marries traditional Japanese artistry with modern industrial design principles. The emphasis on subtle details, such as the hidden yet highly functional diffuser, underscores a design philosophy that values both aesthetic beauty and innovative engineering. The overall impression is one of refined simplicity, where every element contributes to a cohesive and effective lighting fixture. The lamps reflect a blend of cultural heritage and contemporary design, making them versatile additions to various interior spaces. The collection is designed to provide both direct and ambient lighting, suitable for diverse residential and commercial applications. The production process by Nine Furniture ensures high-quality craftsmanship and adherence to the original design intent, making these lamps a notable addition to the modern lighting market. #PendantLamps #KeijiTakeuchi #JapaneseDesign #IndustrialDesign #LightingDesign #NineFurniture #HomeLighting #ModernDesign #DesignInnovation

The Ace Hotel in Kyoto, Japan, set to open in spring, is drawing attention for its unique design and thoughtful amenities. This project is a collaboration between Ace Hotel's longtime partner Commune Design and local architect Kengo Kuma, known for his work on the 2020 Tokyo Olympic stadium. The hotel aims to blend traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern luxury, offering a fresh perspective on hotel room design. The guest rooms in the Ace Hotel Kyoto feature standard luxury elements such as minibars, lounges, and spacious vanities, but elevate them with distinct Japanese-inspired touches. These include tatami mattresses, Tivoli radios, and original artworks from local artists. A particular focus has been placed on optimizing storage solutions, ensuring both functionality and aesthetic appeal within the rooms. One of the standout design elements is the enhanced medicine cabinets in the bathrooms. Unlike typical apartment fixtures, these cabinets are crafted from tamo wood, a local wood similar to western American ash. They feature a sliding door at the bottom, which allows for discreet storage of everyday items while also providing an opportunity to display more visually appealing bottles or decorative elements. For rooms with double vanities, a column of integrated niches offers convenient storage for shared toiletries, addressing a common organizational challenge for couples. Another innovative feature is the multipurpose sofa bed, a simplified version inspired by traditional Japanese futon seating. This design addresses the common issue of cumbersome sofa beds in hotel rooms. The bolster cushion of this sofa doubles as a blanket, making it easy for guests to convert it for a quick nap or additional sleeping space without a complex unfolding process. This thoughtful detail emphasizes ease of use and comfort. Furthermore, the hotel reinterprets the room divider in its Historic guest rooms. Instead of conventional solid walls or partitions, perforated black shades are used. These shades can be rolled down to a desk partition, effectively dividing a large, open room into distinct, more private zones. This design choice offers flexibility in space usage and creates a sense of seclusion within the larger room, providing guests with a 'haven within a haven.' The overall design philosophy focuses on creating an experience that encourages guests to fully enjoy their hotel stay, making the room an integral part of their travel experience. #AceHotelKyoto #HotelDesign #JapaneseAesthetics #KengoKuma #CommuneDesign #LuxuryTravel #InteriorDesign #BathroomDesign #Kyoto

Pritzker-winning architect Tadao Ando consistently pursues the integration of light into his designs, creating complex choreographies of illumination within his architectural spaces. His work frequently showcases sensitive transitions where natural light interacts with concrete surfaces, manifesting as striking shadow patterns or subtle water reflections. Ando's architectural style blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with modernist principles, contributing to a form of critical regionalism. This approach is evident in iconic structures such as the Church of the Light, Koshino House, and the Water Temple, where he adeptly merges regional identity with contemporary interpretations of space, material, and light. Ando's early travels, particularly his visit to Rome in 1965 and his experience of the Pantheon, significantly influenced his architectural philosophy. The dramatic, direct light entering through the Pantheon's oculus presented a stark contrast to the diffused light prevalent in traditional Japanese architecture, characterized by shoji screens and softened daylight from gardens and verandas. This encounter with the Pantheon's intense brightness and singular, central light source profoundly impacted Ando, leading him to explore more dramatic light interventions in his own projects. While direct replication of the Pantheon's geometry was not his aim, the concept of a powerful and singular light source became a recurring motif. This influence is clearly seen in the Church of the Light in Ibaraki, Osaka (1989), where cross-shaped slots on the back wall of the sanctuary create a strong interplay of light and shadow, an unusual feature for traditional Japanese religious architecture. Ando initially envisioned these openings without glass to further intensify the connection to the Pantheon's direct light, though practical considerations for climate dictated the inclusion of glass. The theme of a singular, impactful light source is also reinterpreted in the Hill of the Buddha at the Makomanai Takino Cemetery in Sapporo (2017). Here, a tunnel leads to a rotunda where an oculus frames the Buddha's head, creating an impressive halo and demonstrating Ando's mastery in composing varying brightness levels, spatial dynamics, and vistas, all enhanced by his signature cool, grey concrete. Ando's designs often feature elegant slits between walls and ceilings that create poetic rhythms of light throughout the day. These subtle openings, while primarily diffusing daylight, serve to break the monolithic concrete surfaces, separating vertical and horizontal planes, and enhancing spatial depth. The Koshino House in Ashiya (1984) exemplifies this effect, with sunlight casting diagonal shadow bands that graze the walls, intensifying the dramatic daylighting. Similarly, the Vitra Conference Pavilion uses straight and curved concrete walls to capture distinct shadows, making the passage of time tangible. In the Church on the Water, a cross positioned in the window visually connects the congregation with an external cross on the water. This cross's shadow moves across the floor, tracking the sun's path, a technique also employed in the 4x4 House in Kobe (2003). In his American projects, such as the House in Chicago, the Penthouse in Manhattan (1996), and the 152 Elizabeth apartment block in New York (2017), Ando's windows, influenced by Mies van der Rohe, feature glass membranes with thin vertical lines, producing parallel shadow lines on the floor. Reflecting pools are another significant design element for Ando, introducing dynamic animation to his buildings. Examples include the Komyoji Temple in Saijo (2000), the Modern Art Museum in Fort Worth (2002), and the Langen Foundation in Neuss, Germany (2004). These pools create the illusion that buildings float, particularly at night when interior lighting washes the concrete walls behind glass facades. During the day, they generate captivating water reflections on cantilevered roofs, such as those at the Modern Art Museum. The Water Temple on Awaji Island orchestrates a profound sensory experience, beginning with a void between concrete walls and an open sky, leading to a lotus pond where reflections shimmer. The journey descends into a realm of diffuse red light, achieved through vermilion wooden screens, symbolizing a transformative passage. This sequence culminates at the main altar, where light emanates from the front, guiding worshippers and signifying a spiritual awakening. This architectural journey, as described by Professor Henry Plummer, can be likened to a birth, a purifying passage through light, darkness, and vibrant color. #TadaoAndo #ArchitecturalLighting #ConcreteArchitecture #JapaneseArchitecture #Modernism #LightAndShadow #ReligiousArchitecture #MuseumDesign #KoshinoHouse

Isamu Noguchi's Akari lamps, crafted from Japanese washi paper using traditional Gifu region methods since 1951, are celebrated as modern classics adaptable to diverse interior styles. This lookbook showcases eight distinct homes that integrate these sculptural lamps, highlighting their versatility and enduring appeal. The featured residences span various geographical locations and design philosophies. In a London home designed by Architecture for London, a small, playful orange Akari 1AY lamp adds a touch of vibrancy to a minimalist, energy-saving interior, strategically placed in the hallway entrance. Meanwhile, OWIU's Duane House in Los Angeles, a 1926 renovation blending mid-century modern and traditional Japanese aesthetics, features two Noguchi lamps in its airy bathroom: a smaller one on a side table and a large, cloud-shaped 25N model on the floor, enhancing the serene atmosphere. BC Arquitetos’ renovation of a 1970s São Paulo apartment incorporates a large, asymmetrical Akari light with black dots. This graphic piece provides a striking contrast against the apartment’s monolithic concrete columns and walnut paneling, injecting a playful element into an elegant space. In another London project, the Powerscroft Road townhouse by Daytrip, an Akari lamp playfully rests on a wood-fired stove in the excavated basement kitchen, complementing the gleaming stone floors and white marble table. Interior designer Yana Molodykh’s Kyiv apartment uses the spaceship-like Akari 9A lamp to complement its eclectic array of decorative objects and extensive storage solutions. The attic flat, designed with a palette of natural wood and cream, aims for a bright and inviting ambiance. Studio MK27’s Flat 6 in São Paulo, adorned with a mix of vintage and contemporary furniture, features a small Akari lamp illuminating a reading corner, harmonizing with the ipe wood paneling and basalt stone flooring. Freight Architects’ Oku House in Singapore, which draws inspiration from traditional shophouses and the Japanese concept of ‘oku’ (inwardness), strategically places Akari lamps in sparse, uncluttered minimalist interiors, including the staircase and light-filled kitchen. Lastly, House Bäumle in Austria by Bernardo Bader Architekten features an Akari 9A lamp flanking a wood-fired stove, contributing to the light and airy interior achieved through extensive use of pale wood, contrasting with the home’s blackened timber exterior. These examples demonstrate how Akari lamps, with their diverse shapes and colors, seamlessly integrate into various architectural and interior design contexts, from minimalist to eclectic, adding character and sculptural interest. #AkariLamps #IsamuNoguchi #HomeInteriors #LightingDesign #JapaneseDesign #WashiPaper #InteriorDesignInspiration #SculpturalLighting #ModernClassics

Quality hotel lighting is a crucial and often understated element that can profoundly influence a space's ambiance and design. Interior designers acknowledge that light is a magical ingredient that can make or break an interior, yet good lighting should often go unnoticed in most projects. This article champions innovative approaches to hotel lighting, exploring how architectural and decorative lighting, when used sensitively, can transform a space and deepen its overall design scheme. Several leading interior designers and lighting experts share their perspectives and favorite lighting design schemes to illustrate this power. Simon Rawlings, Creative Director at David Collins Studio, discusses the lighting concept for Nobu Hotel London Portman Square. The design focused on creating a seamless flow and unity throughout the hotel, with specific lighting tailored to each area's mood and function. In the Lobby Lounge, a multi-layered lighting concept enhances comfort and glamour, transitioning from a relaxed daytime feel to a dramatic nighttime scene. Custom bronze wall lights create rippling light effects, while the central bar's rich textures are highlighted by overhead lighting encased in linen and alabaster shades. Marie Soliman, Co-Founder of Bergman Design House, showcases the Phoenix lighting installation in Laowai, a speakeasy bar in Vancouver. This lighting scheme, featuring a flying flock of Phoenix fixtures by Karice lighting and peacock-inspired emerald lampshades, brings a sense of freedom and glamor. Inspired by 1930s Shanghai speakeasies, the lighting contributes to the bar's illicit and seductive atmosphere, enhancing the secretive entrance through a hidden door in the BLND TGER restaurant. Paul Nulty, Founder of Nulty, an international lighting design practice, highlights the Rove Expo 2020 Hotel in Dubai. Nulty’s lighting scheme for the only hotel on the Expo 2020 site aligns with the Expo's theme of ‘Connecting Minds and Creating the Future’ and the hotel’s LEED Gold design concept. The all-LED lighting system, controlled by DALI, allows for individual area adjustments throughout the day. Working with RSP and Arco Group, Nulty created a contemporary scheme that incorporates Dubai’s heritage and culture. The expansive ground floor features layers of illumination to define distinct zones—lobby, lounge, co-working, bar, and café—while maintaining a cohesive flow. Oversized orange pendants and linear lights create visual interest and delineate spaces, with the bar area featuring intricate white metalwork and functional track lights. Lara Bohinc and Adam Coare of Dernier & Hamlyn discuss the bespoke chandelier for The Mandrake Hotel, London's Penthouse Suite. The chandelier, a testament to haute couture design, features over 1,100 individually machined and hand-finished antique nickel metal tubes, mechanically fixed to a lightweight aluminum frame. Equipped with 30 LED G9 lamps, it provides perfect illumination for the unique room. Adam Coare emphasized the complexity and rewarding nature of bringing such a demanding commission to life, from initial concept to manufacturing. Martin Brudnizki, Founder of Martin Brudnizki Design Studio, explains the revolutionary lighting design in Annabel’s, an iconic members' club in London. Though not a hotel, its redesign, led by Brudnizki, showcases innovative lighting. Recognizing the club operates from morning to night, the design integrated lighting across three levels: low-level ground lighting, mid-level wall lights, and overhead chandeliers. Collaborating with Isometrix, the studio created a scheme that adapts to the time of day, offering bright natural light for daytime meetings and a moodier, playful atmosphere for evenings, ensuring members feel both comfortable and excited. #HotelLighting #InteriorDesign #LightingDesign #ArchitecturalLighting #DecorativeLighting #HospitalityDesign #BespokeLighting #DesignInnovation

This article details the thoughtful lighting design within the Roundhouse, a full-service hospitality complex located in Beacon, New York. The Roundhouse is housed in historic 150-year-old structures that once served as a textile mill, and it offers a boutique hotel, an award-winning American restaurant, and an event space accommodating up to 200 guests. The property provides scenic views of a waterfall, a creek, and a bustling street, positioned conveniently close to Niche's location. The interior design of the Roundhouse prominently features contributions from local artisans, with Niche modern pendant lighting playing a significant role in creating an inviting atmosphere. In the creekside lounge, a cluster of custom Niche Crystal Solitaire pendants in various sizes is suspended above the bar. These minimalist pendants are designed to highlight a single Edison-style lamp, casting a warm glow that enhances the cozy ambiance of the lounge, making it an ideal spot for guests to relax by a fire and enjoy the Roundhouse’s signature cocktails. Elizabeth Strianese, the Interior Designer responsible for the original remodel, explains her vision for the lighting. She initially explored numerous custom chandelier concepts, all aimed at creating a playful and highly reflective effect. The Solitaire lights were ultimately chosen for their ability to evoke the appearance of large bubbles floating above the dark, grounded bar area. This design choice resulted in an elegant yet uncomplicated aesthetic, imbued with a subtle flirtatious quality. Within the restaurant area, which features floor-to-ceiling windows offering expansive views of the waterfall, tables of varying sizes are arranged throughout. Here, custom Niche Helio pendants, crafted from Effervescent glass with a custom Mercury overlay, hang from the high, wood-paneled ceiling. The Helio pendant is known for its versatility, offering both translucent and opaque color palettes, along with a range of lamping options. Its compact shape makes it particularly effective when grouped, as demonstrated in this setting. Strianese elaborates on the collaboration with Niche for the restaurant's lighting, seeking a custom pendant that would combine Niche's characteristic natural, handmade aesthetic with an added touch of sparkle. The objective was to install unique, locally-made lights at differing heights across the ceiling, creating an effect reminiscent of jewels or stars scattered across the sky. The Roundhouse restaurant features a large concrete shell, and the design aimed to maintain this industrial character. However, the lighting was intended to introduce a luxurious element that would elevate the space. Niche proved to be an ideal partner, successfully developing a light fixture that emits a soft, romantic interior glow while its exterior sparkles with reflections, adding a "bronzey fun" dimension to the ambiance. #RestaurantLighting #HotelDesign #BoutiqueHotel #ModernLighting #PendantLights #InteriorDesign #HistoricRenovation #UpstateNewYork

In Japan, where Zen principles rooted in ancient Shinto rituals and Buddhist meditations deeply influence daily life, interior design reflects these philosophies through an emphasis on balance, minimalism, and harmony. This approach often manifests in Japanese homes designed to evoke equanimity, calmness, and freedom from excess. The aesthetic is characterized by a timeless beauty, frequently incorporating a basic color palette of light and soft earth tones. Furniture typically features clean lines and sharp angles, often finished with unvarnished cedar wood. This article highlights seven modern Japanese hotels that embody these Zen-inspired design principles, offering travelers an opportunity to experience peace and serenity. The first featured hotel, Amanemu, is located in Iseshima's tranquil Ise-Shima National Park on Honshu Island. It provides suites and villas equipped with spacious outdoor decks and traditional onsen baths, aligning with the concept of integrating nature and relaxation. Next, Zaborin in Hokkaido is nestled within forests and meadows, close to premier ski slopes. Its 15 villas each boast indoor and outdoor traditional Japanese baths, fed by natural volcanic spring water, emphasizing a deep connection to the natural environment. The House of Finn Juhl, situated in the ski town of Hakuba in Nagano, presents a unique fusion of Danish and Japanese design sensibilities. This hotel is entirely furnished with pieces by Danish master Finn Juhl, demonstrating how distinct design traditions can converge harmoniously. Shimaya Stays in Kyoto offers a contemporary take on traditional Japanese living. Two historic townhouses, over a century old, have been meticulously restored and transformed into modern, clean-lined serviced apartments, preserving their heritage while providing modern comforts. Sotoyama Jujo, located in Minami-Uonuma, a mere two-hour train ride from Tokyo, is a countryside hotel that blends natural elements with sophisticated design. It features cypress and cedar wood floors, an outdoor bathtub, stunning mountain views, and furniture by renowned designers such as Arne Jacobsen, Hans Wegner, and Isamu Noguchi. Hoshinoya Tokyo, opened in 2016, offers a contemporary interpretation of traditional Japanese ryokans within a 17-floor structure. Its rooms and public areas are designed with tatami mats, creating an authentic Japanese ambiance. Finally, Hotel Kanra in Kyoto provides modern rooms inspired by "machiyas," which are traditional wooden townhouse homes characteristic of Kyoto. These rooms include tatami beds and aromatic cypress bathtubs, offering guests a sensory experience that reflects local traditions. Each of these hotels showcases how modern Japanese hospitality integrates Zen principles and traditional aesthetics to create environments of profound tranquility and beauty, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a peaceful retreat. #JapaneseHotels #ZenDesign #MinimalistInteriors #JapaneseArchitecture #LuxuryTravel #OnsenBaths #RyokanExperience #KyotoHotels #HokkaidoHotels

MESM Tokyo, a new addition to Marriott's Autograph Collection, offers a unique blend of traditional Japanese hospitality and modern, fashion-forward design. Located in the WATERS Takeshiba building in Hamamatsucho, the hotel occupies floors 16 through 26, providing guests with panoramic views of Tokyo Bay and the historic Hamarikyu Gardens. The hotel's design, orchestrated by Wilson Associates, draws inspiration from the dynamic flow of water and people along the Takeshiba waterfront, influencing its decor, color scheme, and art installations. Each room at MESM Tokyo is a fusion of contemporary and traditional Japanese aesthetics, designed to maximize the impressive views. Entryways feature bespoke consoles, and rooms are equipped with standalone powder rooms and collapsible closet cubicles for a sleek and efficient living space. For guests with a musical inclination, a Casio Privia digital piano is thoughtfully included in each room, adding a unique touch to the guest experience. Dining at MESM Tokyo is an experience in itself. The Chef’s Theatre restaurant offers French bistro cuisine prepared with fresh, locally sourced Japanese ingredients, all within a dining room that pays homage to kabuki theater. For a more relaxed atmosphere, Whisk provides cocktails, coffee, and light bites, centered around an elegant cantilevered marble bar. The hotel also caters to corporate and social events with a multi-function room capable of accommodating up to 90 people. Adhering to the Autograph Collection's philosophy of providing distinct experiences tailored to each destination, MESM Tokyo emphasizes showcasing the city's latest trends in fashion, art, technology, and lifestyle. This commitment is evident through the inclusion of locally sourced products throughout the hotel, such as men's skincare from Bulk Homme and coffee from the trendy Sarutahiko Coffee. These curated selections allow guests to immerse themselves in Tokyo's contemporary culture and stay current with local trends. In essence, MESM Tokyo represents a sophisticated retreat that marries luxurious accommodations with cultural authenticity. The strategic location, coupled with thoughtful design and bespoke amenities, positions it as a significant hospitality offering in the Japanese capital. The hotel aims to not only mesmerize its guests through its design and services but also to connect them with the vibrant pulse of Tokyo's innovative and traditional landscapes. #MESMTokyo #AutographCollection #LuxuryHotel #TokyoHospitality #JapaneseDesign #WaterfrontViews #HotelInterior #TravelJapan #TokyoHotels

The 'Illan' lamp, designed by Hungarian architect and designer Zsuzsanna Horvath for Italian lighting company Luceplan, is a distinctive pendant light crafted from laser-cut birch plywood. This unique fixture utilizes precise laser-cutting technology to create equidistant circular lines from a thin sheet of plywood. These delicate wooden outlines are then suspended together, forming the body of the lamp. The design is characterized by its simplicity, apparent weightlessness, and a harmonious blend of emotion and technological creativity. Horvath's prototype for the 'Illan' lamp first garnered attention at Salone Satellite during a previous Milan Furniture Fair. The name 'Illan', meaning 'something temporary' or 'fleeting' in Hungarian, reflects the designer's intention to celebrate the transient moments of beauty encountered in everyday life. Horvath describes the lamp as emerging from the exploration of laser-cutting various materials, where geometrically cut sheets of paper and wood acquire new characteristics when suspended by gravity. She considers the 'Illan lamp' to exist at the intersection of art and design, balancing functional quality, aesthetic appeal, and a touch of the magical elements desired in daily existence. The fabrication process involves innovative materiality and construction, contributing to the lamp's sculptural integrity. When installed, the thin wood pieces naturally fall into a unique curved form. A golden-hued LED light source is discreetly placed within the upper section of the lampshade. This light permeates the translucent wooden structure, producing a warm, diffused glow that enhances the ambient atmosphere. Horvath emphasizes the lamp's defining attributes as translucency, flexibility, and a subtle undulating movement. The simple, concentric cutting motifs transform the wood into a three-dimensional sculptural object. This structure is designed to react to even the slightest air currents, creating a gentle, dynamic movement. The warm illumination from the LED light reflects off the wooden surfaces, producing a relaxing sensation and a harmonious visual resonance. The 'Illan' lamp stands as a testament to combining advanced fabrication techniques with poetic design philosophy, creating a lighting fixture that is both functional and artful. #PendantLamp #LightingDesign #ZsuzsannaHorvath #Luceplan #BirchPlywood #LaserCut #HomeDecor #ItalianDesign #MilanFurnitureFair

HAMS and Studio undertook the renovation of an apartment situated in the suburbs of Tokyo, Japan, with the intention of transforming it into a flexible living environment tailored for a working couple. The project, titled 'One Nuance,' aimed to deviate from the apartment's original rigid grid plan by introducing subtle variations in spatial composition, color, and material finishes. This strategic approach sought to create an adaptable living space that could accommodate a diverse range of activities and lifestyles. The design process commenced by addressing the existing layout, which notably featured a corner-room configuration. The primary intervention involved the elimination of traditional corridors, a common feature in many apartments that can fragment spaces and limit natural light. In their place, smaller, more versatile rooms were arranged along the exterior walls. This reorientation served to maximize natural light penetration and foster a brighter, more open ambiance throughout the apartment, significantly enhancing the overall sense of spaciousness. A central element of the redesigned apartment is the living room, conceived as an open and fluid zone. This open-plan living area establishes direct connections with the surrounding smaller rooms, promoting an interactive and relaxed atmosphere. A distinctive feature of the renovation is the implementation of a 'double-opening' design. This innovative system comprises 'outer openings' that are strategically positioned to draw natural light deeper into the interior spaces. Complementing these, 'inner openings' are integrated into the internal partitions, serving to frame and visually connect various living activities happening within the apartment, thereby creating a continuous and expansive internal vista. The aesthetic and functional versatility of the apartment is further elaborated through the nuanced design of the internal facades. The appearance of these facades is intentionally varied, contingent upon the specific purpose of each adjoining smaller room and the type of partition employed. This thoughtful differentiation generates a series of unique 'viewports' throughout the home, adding visual interest and spatial depth. For instance, robust plastering was selected for the internal walls, providing a textured and durable surface. In contrast, glossy solid finishes were applied to the passages leading to the living room, contributing to a sense of fluidity and light reflection. The selection of materials and finishes, characterized by subtle textures and a cohesive color palette, was critical in establishing the apartment's dynamic and harmonious environment. The objective was to ensure that while individual spaces retained their distinct character, they collectively formed a unified and aesthetically pleasing whole. This attention to detail in material application and color scheme reinforces the project's 'One Nuance' concept, where slight variations contribute to a richer and more adaptable living experience for the inhabitants. The renovation successfully transforms a standard suburban apartment into a sophisticated and highly functional dwelling, ready to meet the evolving needs of its occupants. #ApartmentRenovation #TokyoArchitecture #FlexibleLiving #InteriorDesign #SpatialComposition #HAMSandStudio #ResidentialArchitecture #OpenPlanLiving

Seoul, designated as World Design Capital 2010, is showcasing its commitment to design through various ambitious architectural projects and exhibitions. Among these, Tokujin Yoshioka's "Spectrum" show at the Museum Beyond Museum stands out. Yoshioka, a Japanese designer, views design as an experiential rather than a purely creative process, and his works often possess an ethereal quality. His installation for Kartell at Salone del Mobile and his "Tornado" creation for Design Miami in 2007 exemplify this unique approach. The current exhibition features a nine-meter-tall window composed of 500 crystal prisms, titled 'Rainbow Church,' which is a central and awe-inspiring piece. This project was inspired by Yoshioka's visit to Henri Matisse's Chepelle du Rosaire in his early twenties, where he was deeply affected by the vibrant light filtering through Matisse's stained glass. This experience sparked his long-held dream of designing architecture that allows individuals to perceive light with all their senses. The exhibition also highlights some of Yoshioka's significant works from the past decade. These include the innovative "Venus" chair, which was cultivated from crystals within an aquarium, and the "Honey-pop" chair, a honeycomb-like structure crafted from sheets of glassine paper. A previously unseen piece, "Waterfall," is also on display. This counter table is fashioned from a massive glass block, similar to those used in giant observatory telescopes, and was originally created for a private gallery in Tokyo in 2006. Its appearance evokes that of a colossal ice block. Yoshioka's work consistently aims to engage all senses, offering an immersive experience for viewers rather than a passive observation. The "Spectrum" show in Seoul continues this tradition, inviting visitors to deeply interact with his designs and the unique way he interprets and utilizes light and materials. The exhibition is hosted at the Museum Beyond Museum in Gangnam-gu Chungdam-dong, Seoul, South Korea. #TokujinYoshioka #SeoulDesign #MuseumBeyondMuseum #DesignExhibition #CrystalPrisms #RainbowChurch #VenusChair #WaterfallDesign #JapaneseDesign

The article discusses current trends in hotel bathroom lighting, featuring insights from four industry experts. Bart Maeyens, general manager of Modular Lighting Instruments, emphasizes the growing influence of wellness in design, leading to a preference for natural or natural-looking materials and aesthetics. This includes the use of marble and raw metals like steel and aluminum, often combined with unevenly finished surfaces to achieve a more organic feel. Robert Sonneman, executive chairman and chief creative officer at Sonneman—A Way of Light, highlights the importance of creating an inviting and comfortable bathroom experience through lighting. He recommends even illumination, a comfortable level of brightness, and warm color temperatures. Such lighting not only flatters skin tones but also contributes to a welcoming ambiance, blending utility with comfort. Kelly Aaron, chief luminary at Blueprint Lighting, points out the practicality of leveraging lighting to keep hotel designs current. Unlike more expensive and complex updates to countertops and fixtures, lighting can be easily and affordably replaced. This allows hotels to embrace new trends and refresh the room's aesthetic in a matter of minutes or years, making it a flexible design element. Peter Bowles, Managing Director of Original BTC, notes a nostalgic turn in bathroom design, driven by the prevalence of social media and the desire to create unique boutique hotel experiences. This trend involves recalling vintage styles, particularly those from the 1930s and 1960s, in elements such as bath furniture, tilework, and, importantly, lighting. This approach aims to infuse flair and functionality into modern hotel bathrooms while offering a distinct character for guests. Overall, the experts highlight a shift towards natural aesthetics, comfortable and flattering illumination, cost-effective design updates, and nostalgic vintage styles to enhance the guest experience in hotel bathrooms. #HotelDesign #BathroomLighting #DesignTrends #LightingFixtures #WellnessDesign #NostalgicStyles #HospitalityDesign #InteriorDesign #GuestExperience

The Nobu brand, co-founded by Robert DeNiro and chef Nobu Matsuhisa, has expanded from its initial restaurant in Tribeca into a global empire encompassing 40 restaurants and 20 luxury hotels by the end of 2020. This expansion includes two significant new properties in North America: Nobu Hotel Los Cabos and Nobu Hotel Palo Alto. Nobu Hotel Los Cabos, which opened in March, features 200 guest rooms, infinity pools, and a spa, situated on the Baja Peninsula's southern tip. The architectural design integrates Japanese aesthetics with Mexican influences. Guests are welcomed through a Zen-inspired courtyard that leads to a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean, framed by a stone portal. The hotel's layout prioritizes ocean views, particularly the Pacific sunsets. Interior design reflects Japanese minimalism, incorporating elements such as teak soaking tubs and shoji screen-inspired closet doors in guest rooms. Local Mexican materials, geometric artwork, and vibrant color accents add indigenous character to the minimalist design. Nobu Hotel Palo Alto, designed by Montalba Architects, is undergoing a multimillion-dollar renovation and rebranding, with its opening slated for 2020. This boutique property will offer 73 rooms and a two-story signature restaurant. Despite its urban setting in Silicon Valley, the hotel will feature an outdoor plant and sculptural landscape. Interior lighting will include John Wigmore light fixtures crafted from Japanese paper. Catering to its tech-centric location, the hotel will provide advanced technological amenities such as 82-inch televisions and in-room Alexa devices. The high-end Ryokan rooms will further enhance the luxury experience with freestanding wood soaking tubs and slatted teak wall paneling. The design philosophy across Nobu Hotels emphasizes "unpretentious luxury." Robert DeNiro describes his preference for designs that are simple, elegant, functional, practical, and devoid of excessive ornamentation, stating that rooms should be rooted in a sense of reality. This approach is evident in the understated yet chic minibars at the Palo Alto location and the lush, streamlined pools at Los Cabos. Beyond design, the culinary experience remains a cornerstone of the Nobu brand. Chef Nobu Matsuhisa ensures that local ingredients, techniques, and staff are integrated into each hotel's dining offerings. This commitment extends to supporting local communities, as seen with the employment of Mexican staff at the Los Cabos property. The partners, including Robert DeNiro and Meir Teper, acknowledge occasional disagreements over their 25 years of collaboration but emphasize their strong, family-like bond, driven by a shared commitment to developing properties in optimal locations with the right teams. This collaborative approach underpins their successful expansion into the luxury hotel market. #NobuHotels #LuxuryHospitality #HotelDesign #JapaneseMinimalism #ArchitecturalDesign #RobertDeNiro #NobuMatsuhisa #InteriorDecor #SiliconValley

The lighting studio Bone Simple Design, founded by Chad Jacobs, is innovating in the realm of lighting fixtures by incorporating texture and color through unique dyeing and painting techniques. Located in a 100-year-old industrial building in Long Island City, the studio now occupies a space formerly used by luxury fabric house Scalamandré for textile dyeing. Jacobs finds this serendipitous, as his current work involves similar processes with lighting components. Jacobs, who launched his custom lighting line in 1993, has recently expanded into dip-dyeing and painting large rope pendants and using shibori-inspired methods for linen shades. This creative shift was notably demonstrated when he completed 15 five-foot-tall string fixtures for a hotel in the Bahamas, where the cord was immersed in golden yellow dye. Jacobs emphasizes that for him, lighting is not solely about illumination but also significantly about texture, expressing a clear preference over the minimalist bare bulb aesthetic. Operating from a 5,000-square-foot ground-floor space, Jacobs leads a team of seven employees, predominantly from art backgrounds. The team meticulously handcrafts all components, outsourcing only metal plating and powder-coated frames. Jacobs strategically designed the studio's layout, ensuring junction boxes were installed to allow for the suspension of numerous fixtures, providing ample light for work and displaying dramatic pieces for clients. A notable display piece is a massive hanging white cage pendant lamp, hung low to showcase its impressive dome shape, though Jacobs advises a 30 to 36-inch clearance from tabletops in typical installations. He also suggests diversifying lighting arrangements with a combination of wall sconces, floor lamps, table lamps, and ceiling fixtures to achieve optimal control over light levels within a space. Jacobs's creative inspiration is drawn from a vibrant mood board adorned with art show posters, sketches, and photographs of design icons like Ruth Asawa, whose wire sculptures are a significant influence. The mood board also features a South African artist's necklace, a colorful piece that has recently informed Jacobs's bold color palettes and experimental design approach. For achieving a wide range of colors, Jacobs uses commercial-grade Rit Dyes, which are versatile enough for natural and synthetic fibers. He notes that these dyes can be mixed to create custom hues, with paper towel tests guiding the intensity. When painting rope and string fixtures, the team employs wide, flat brushes for thorough coverage. Linen shades are preferred for dyeing due to their excellent absorbency, and while silk hasn't been tested, it is believed to be equally effective. Jacobs's technique for creating unique linen drum shades stems from a desire to utilize leftover dye, involving rolling and folding the fabric before dyeing. This process, loosely inspired by Japanese shibori, is simplified and allows for dye bleeding, often resulting in multi-tonal effects. He describes these outcomes as "happy accidents" when successful, indicating an embrace of experimentation in his design process. The article encourages readers to try these techniques themselves or explore Bone Simple's existing range of colorful lighting options. #TexturedLighting #LightingDesign #CustomLighting #BoneSimpleDesign #DyeingTechniques #ShiboriInspired #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeDecor #ArtisticLighting

This article highlights ten furniture and lighting designs from Japanese brands and designers, curated to coincide with Designart Tokyo, an annual design festival that showcases architecture, interiors, product design, and art across various locations in Tokyo. The selection features a range of products including outdoor lantern lamps, sculptural tables, and carved wooden chairs, all previously showcased on Dezeen Showroom. Among the featured designs is the Kawara Armchair by Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec for Koyori. This chair is characterized by its classic shape, designed for dining or meeting settings, and its representation of high-quality Japanese craftsmanship. The box-like structure of the chair is intended to provide comfort. Another notable piece is the Sculpture Casting Bronze table by Time & Style, which incorporates a metal casting technique traditionally used for Buddhist statues in Japan for its large, sculptural base. This base is paired with an elliptical oak tabletop available in two sizes. Eterble fabric tablecloths by Japanese tableware brand Eterble are also presented. These tablecloths are made from recycled fabric, sourced from discarded items from weddings, hotels, and function rooms, and are offered in a neutral color palette. Seiki Design Studio, led by Kyoto-based designer Seiki Ishii, introduces the Bell lamp, a mobile lamp crafted from recycled glass. Its bell-shaped lampshade and blue loop allow it to be hung on a wall or placed on a floor stand. The Sou sofa, designed by Teruhiro Yanagihara for Swedish manufacturer Offecct, combines a wooden base with various cushioned seat options. Its minimalist design draws inspiration from both Japanese and Scandinavian design traditions. The Spectrum Workstation Round ST160, a collaboration between German studio Geckeler Michels and Japanese furniture manufacturer Karimoku, is a table made from Japanese oak. It features a circular cable tunnel in its center to manage cables efficiently while maintaining an aesthetic appeal. Product designer Yoshiki Matsuyama's Cachalot lamp for Ambientec is a portable light with a shape inspired by a whale's body. It consists of an LED light unit within a sculptural acrylic case, mounted on a die-cast zinc base. The DC10 chair by Inoda + Sveje for Miyazaki Chair Factory showcases a frame made from a carved piece of wood, emphasizing the natural material's color and grain. Its construction blends traditional handcrafting with modern CNC technology. The TO side table, created by Japanese designer Naoto Fukasawa for Italian brand Plank, is a minimalist piece featuring a circular base and tabletop. Made from four-millimeter-thick steel, it comes in various powdered-coated finishes. Finally, the Sparkler Lanterns by Kensaku Oshiro for Poltrona Frau are outdoor lamps available in three sizes. Their perforated shells, made from woven polypropylene rope, create unique patterns of light and shadow. This collection underscores a blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design across various home furnishing categories from Japan. #JapaneseDesign #FurnitureDesign #LightingDesign #DezeenShowroom #DesignartTokyo #ProductDesign #InteriorDesign #Craftsmanship #SustainableDesign