A Japanese Design Inspired Pied-à-Terre in the Heart of Hong Kong

The Pavilia Hill, a newly finished residential complex located in Hong Kong's Tin Hau neighborhood, adopts a wabi-sabi aesthetic. Adrian Cheng, executive vice-chairman and joint general manager of New World, the company behind the project, says that "in a busy city like Hong Kong, it is hard to find a place to soothe our nerves and have peace of mind." The complex's five 31-story buildings are connected by a magnificent Japanese landscape garden designed by Shunmyo Masuno, one of Japan's most well-known living landscape architects. The tranquil area promotes peaceful contemplation with a stone walkway that winds through a number of exquisitely maintained—yet seemingly unplanned—undulating hills dotted with Bonsai, man-made waterfalls, and sculptural rocks. Enormous stone sculptures that represent mountains, water, existence, purity, and sound define each tower. Koichiro Ikebuchi, a Japanese interior designer based in Singapore, oversaw the creation of the amenities, which include a tranquil clubhouse, a gym, and an indoor swimming pool and bath with an onsen-inspired design. Throughout, semi-translucent shoji screens, natural materials, and simple textured walls all showcase contemplative, classic modern and traditional Japanese elements. Ikebuchi describes using natural materials that will gracefully age in their own distinct and appealing ways. A contemporary tea pavilion showcasing a magnificent ink painting by well-known Chinese artist Zheng Chongbin, a private outdoor meditation area, and a semi-private lounge with a Japanese garden in each tower lobby are among the pastoral settings. Cheng, who lived in Kyoto and studied art and culture, views the initiative as evidence of a developing desire for living environments that go beyond aesthetics to foster emotional connection. It appears that Hong Kong shares this opinion, based on how quickly the apartments were purchased. The complex includes a sleek and tranquil clubhouse, a gym, and an indoor swimming pool and bath with an onsen-inspired design. Throughout, the interiors are both thoughtful and modern, incorporating classic Japanese materials. The five blocks that make up The Pavilia Hill are each 31 stories high and are joined by a magnificent Japanese landscape garden. Shunmyo Masuno, one of Japan's most well-known living landscape architects, designed the exterior landscaping. In the meantime, Koichiro Ikebuchi, a Japanese interior designer based in Singapore, oversaw the creation of the inhabitants' amenities. Developers New World, who recently finished the 358-unit project, aimed to create a place where inhabitants could unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The Pavilia Hill's development demonstrates a thoughtful approach to urban living, emphasizing tranquility and connection to nature within a dense metropolitan environment. The integration of traditional Japanese design principles, from the wabi-sabi aesthetic to the specific choice of materials and landscaping, creates a unique residential experience. This project caters to a growing demand for homes that offer not just comfort and luxury, but also a sense of peace and emotional well-being, standing as a notable example of how architectural and interior design can contribute to a higher quality of life in bustling cities. #HongKongArchitecture #WabiSabiDesign #ResidentialDevelopment #JapaneseLandscape #InteriorDesign #UrbanRespite #ZenLiving #LuxuryApartments #ModernJapaneseDesign

Starbucks in Japan has achieved remarkable popularity, extending beyond its global presence to cultivate a fervent local following since its debut in Ginza in 1996. With over 1,917 stores nationwide, the brand's rapid expansion and enthusiastic reception are noteworthy. A notable instance of this widespread appeal occurred in 2015, when the opening of a Starbucks in Tottori, Japan's least populated prefecture, drew a crowd of a thousand people who queued from early morning. The launch of the world's largest Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Meguro in 2019 further exemplified its popularity, necessitating a lottery system to manage visitor access through time-slotted tickets. The brand's success in Japan is attributed to several factors, including its consistent introduction of seasonal, limited-edition beverages and merchandise, many of which are exclusive to the Japanese market. Additionally, Starbucks has adeptly integrated with local culture by creating visually appealing and distinctive spaces. These locations often incorporate innovative architecture and design, frequently blending with their inspiring surroundings to offer unique aesthetic experiences. The designs are so integrated into their environments that they often do not immediately appear to be a Starbucks until the familiar green mermaid logo is spotted. Examples of these architecturally significant Starbucks locations include the Hakodate Bayside store in Hokkaido, situated in a heritage building within the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse district. This two-story former warehouse, dating back to the Meiji era, preserves its historic ambiance with original wooden flooring and staircase. It offers views of Hakodate Bay and a fireplace for warmth during Hokkaido's cold winters. The Hirosaki Koen-mae store in Aomori is housed within the Daihachi Dancho Kansha, a former division commander's residence built in 1917. This location, a Tangible Cultural Property, blends Western aesthetics with Japanese design elements like shoji doors and traditional wall scrolls. It also features local crafts, such as light fixtures made from beech wood using the bunaco technique and sofa backrests embroidered with Tsugaru style kogin-zashi patterns. In Kawagoe, Saitama, the Kanetsuki-dori store mirrors the 'Little Edo' townscape with a traditional warehouse-like structure, featuring a local cedarwood exterior and a tiled roof. Its interior incorporates repurposed fusuma sliding panels as framed artworks and cushions made from local Kawagoe tozan kimono fabric, tied with ume musubi-style cords. An outdoor terrace provides access to a Japanese garden, where patrons can occasionally hear the nearby Tsuki no Kane bell tower. The Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo in Meguro, designed by Kengo Kuma, is one of the brand's largest roasteries globally. This four-story structure on the Meguro River features a roasting factory, an Arriviamo cocktail bar, a Teavana tea room, and a Princi bakery. Its fourth-floor terrace offers views of cherry blossoms during spring. The Yomiuriland Hana Biyori store in Tokyo is uniquely situated within a greenhouse at Yomiuriland’s Hana Biyori garden. This location provides a floral environment with blooming flower walls and hanging baskets. It features an open, light-filled space with abundant greenery, a communal table with a water feature, and counter seats overlooking an 8m-long aquarium with Okinawan coral fish. Entry requires a ticket to the botanical garden. The Nineizaka Yasaka Chaya store in Kyoto occupies a 100-year-old machiya (townhouse) from the Taisho period, seamlessly blending into the historic neighborhood. Recognized with the Kyoto Scenery Award, it preserves a traditional daibei wooden wall and features three inner courtyards converted into Japanese gardens. The upper floor resembles a classic Japanese tea house with tatami floors, zabuton cushions made from Tango kimono fabric, and tokonoma spaces displaying wall scrolls. The Meriken Park store in Kobe is located at the city’s picturesque harbor, near the Kobe Port Tower. Its facade, resembling fish scales, is constructed using the traditional hishibuki technique with diamond-shaped metal plates. The first floor offers views of the lawn and harbor, while the second floor, designed like a ship's bow with a curved glass wall, provides a cruise-like experience. The store is particularly scenic in the evening when surrounding landmarks are illuminated. The Dogo Onsen Ekisha store in Ehime is housed in a two-story Meiji-era structure built in 1912, part of the Dogo Onsen train station. Its design combines Western and traditional Japanese aesthetics with lattice windows, Victorian-style fencing, and a wooden facade. The interior features a bar counter and communal table made from repurposed railway sleepers and tracks, reflecting the area's heritage. Finally, the Dazaifu Tenmangu Omotesando store in Fukuoka, designed by Kengo Kuma, is an avant-garde installation along the pedestrian street to Dazaifu Tenmangu shrine. Its signature feature is a criss-crossing mass of 2,000 cedar wood bars, pieced together using the traditional kigumi technique without nails. The interior features zigzagging sofa seats and natural light, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. #StarbucksJapan #ArchitecturalDesign #UniqueCafes #JapaneseCulture #HeritageBuildings #KengoKuma #KyotoMachiya #TokyoArchitecture #HokkaidoHistory

Architects Daisuke Ibano and Ryosuke Fujii of id+fr designed the 'Diagonal House' in a densely populated residential area of Tokyo for a couple and their children. The project addressed the challenge of strict height limitations due to category 1 height control district regulations on the front half of the lot, requiring an innovative approach to urban housing. The primary goal was to integrate the kitchen, living space, and terrace, which were important to the client who spends significant time cooking. This led to the implementation of a design featuring staggered floors, aiming to achieve spatial continuity and facilitate smooth vertical circulation throughout the residence. To enhance the sense of spatial continuity, the architects incorporated a slab above the living room that folds upwards along a slanted line. Additionally, a portion of the uppermost slab was partially raised to create a large kitchen terrace opening, further connecting indoor and outdoor spaces. These design choices resulted in unique features that encourage diverse activities within the home. For instance, the sloped floor of the terrace is suitable for sunbathing, while the area beneath the raised section of the top slab forms an alcove that can be utilized for sleeping. The architectural compositions extended to other design elements, including platforms integrated at a diagonal angle alongside the stairwell that navigates between the staggered floors. Correspondingly, storage units on the opposite wall also adopted a diagonal angle. A triangular light garden was positioned at the end of a large opening in the living room, establishing a diagonally oriented axis that contributes to a more spacious feel within the interior. The numerous diagonal lines throughout the 'Diagonal House' were carefully considered to optimize visibility and establish interconnected relationships between various spaces. These diagonals became a defining characteristic of the design, fostering a sense of openness and connection to the external environment. The architects aimed to create a dwelling that not only harmonizes with the varied architectural forms of the surrounding residential buildings but also provides a microenvironment where the family can experience a strong sense of urban life from any point within their home. The project successfully blends functionality with an aesthetic that responds to its tight urban context, offering inventive solutions for modern living in Tokyo. #TokyoArchitecture #ResidentialDesign #SpatialContinuity #DiagonalElements #StaggeredFloors #UrbanHousing #JapaneseArchitecture #idfrArchitecture #InnovativeDesign

Acne Studios, the Swedish fashion label, has opened a new flagship store in Tokyo's Aoyama district, a move that encapsulates the brand's playful yet minimalist aesthetic. The store, located on a prominent corner of Omotesando, an area known for its architectural significance, was designed by Acne Studios' founder and creative director, Jonny Johansson, in collaboration with Stockholm-based studio Halleroed. This new location replaces a previous store on a nearby backstreet and represents the culmination of Johansson's long-standing connection and inspiration drawn from Japan. The conceptual foundation for the store was inspired by the idea of a 'garage' – an open, technical space. Johansson envisioned an interior that maintained the skeleton of the original building, incorporating extensive use of glass to create a seamless flow between the inside and outside, allowing visitors to feel connected to Aoyama. This structural openness is complemented by a unique design element: softly-textured pink granite stone. This material is used to connect various spaces, extending across floors and walls, and forms two prominent, airy staircases with clean, minimalist lines and subtly indented handrails. The choice of pink for the granite was deliberate, aimed at avoiding a 'banal' or 'naïve' impression. According to Ruxandra Halleröd, co-founder of Halleroed, the team explored various textures and materials before settling on a granite that intensifies in pink hue when flamed. This approach was intended to create a mature and nuanced pink, moving beyond typical feminine connotations to become a 'pop color' that aligns with Acne Studios' slightly vague yet distinct brand identity. Contrasting the soft pink granite, the store integrates reflective metal accents, angled mirrors, and dynamic stainless steel clothing hangers that are sharply suspended from the ceiling. This blend of materials and forms adds to the store's contemporary and edgy atmosphere. Further enhancing the creative interior are bespoke elements from long-term Acne Studios collaborators. British designer Max Lamb contributed a series of pieces, including shiny soft leather seats that appear to merge with the walls, tufted carpets, and 'Blob' chairs made from hand-dyed yarns. Illumination is provided by dozens of custom strip-lighting fixtures, conceived by designer Benoit Lalloz, which are strategically placed across ceilings and integrated into metal displays. Surrealist mannequins by artist Daniel Silver introduce an additional layer of artistry. Ruxandra Halleröd emphasizes that the design thrives on contrasts, mirroring Tokyo's own blend of high-tech and historical elements. The stark, hard-material-clad building contrasts with the irregular, shiny furniture, creating unexpected visual and tactile experiences. Christian Halleröd, also a co-founder of Halleroed, highlights Japan as a significant source of inspiration, particularly for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship. The store's opening is also marked by a collaboration with artist Takuro Kuwata, who created a series of candy-bright ceramic vessels and reinvented the brand's 'Camero' bag and denim jeans with rainbow designs and trompe l'œil effects. This reflects Johansson's perspective that "fashion is supposed to be fun" and a desire for luxury to be inclusive rather than exclusive, a philosophy that deeply informs the new Tokyo flagship. #AcneStudios #Tokyo #FlagshipStore #FashionDesign #RetailArchitecture #InteriorDesign #JapaneseCraftsmanship #ContemporaryArt

The architectural practice 2m26 has designed a timber sheep pen named Hitsujigoya, located in Kyoto, Japan. This structure features a thick thatched roof adorned with purple iris flowers and serves as a gatehouse to separate male and female sheep within a field, offering covered resting areas on both sides. The design emphasizes the use of natural materials and traditional construction methods, aligning with the firm's experimental approach to architecture. Hitsujigoya is constructed primarily from local cypress logs, which were hand-assembled using traditional Japanese joinery techniques. These logs are set upon stone foundations, ensuring a robust yet natural base. The roof is a significant element, crafted using a traditional method involving layers of rice straw applied to bamboo nets, further covered with cedar leaves, cedar bark, and soil. This layered approach not only provides insulation and protection but also ensures the structure's eventual return to nature if not maintained. A notable and distinctive feature of the Hitsujigoya's roof is the inclusion of Japanese roof irises at its apex. This design choice is a nod to historical practices in Japan, France, and China, where irises were traditionally grown on thatched roofs. These flowers are believed to have been used to prevent leaks, with their extensive root systems helping to bind the roof materials together. For 2m26, a practice founded by French architects Mélanie Heresbach and Sébastien Renauld working in Japan, this detail also symbolizes a cultural connection between their two backgrounds. The project reflects 2m26's broader philosophy of using locally sourced materials and traditional techniques that minimize environmental impact. The architects explicitly stated their intention for the building to naturally decompose and return to the earth if human intervention ceased, highlighting a commitment to sustainability and a deep respect for the surrounding landscape. The only non-natural element used in the construction is a hinge, which was custom-ordered from a local blacksmith, further emphasizing the reliance on traditional craftsmanship and local resources. This project is consistent with 2m26's previous works, which similarly explore the integration of traditional Japanese materials and construction methods into contemporary design. Examples include a mobile ramen restaurant that draws inspiration from traditional Japanese food carts and a chicken coop designed with references to Japanese shrines. These projects demonstrate the practice's ongoing dedication to creating structures that are contextually relevant, environmentally conscious, and culturally resonant, while also pushing the boundaries of architectural experimentation with natural forms and materials. #Japan #Wood #Animals #Kyoto #Huts #WoodenArchitecture #2m26

This article details the construction and design of a new three-bedroom modern Japanese-style house located in Lennox Head on the NSW north coast, built by video editor Raquel Banks and builder Jack Nyboer of Nobo Build. The project, which took approximately two years from design to completion, features a single-story layout with two courtyards and a self-contained studio, thoughtfully integrated into its natural surroundings overlooking a nature reserve. The house's design centers around maximizing daylight and connecting indoor and outdoor living spaces through dual north-facing courtyard gardens. The central courtyard serves as a communal outdoor space ideal for entertaining, while a more private rear courtyard, adjoining the main bedroom, includes a plunge pool and outdoor shower, creating an adult retreat. This innovative layout ensures that every area of the home enjoys a view of the garden, fulfilling Jack's initial vision for the property. The exterior of the home features charred jarrah-clad walls, utilizing the Japanese shou sugi ban technique for timber preservation, which also provides a raw, maintenance-free aesthetic that contrasts with the brighter interior. The interior palette, selected by Raquel, emphasizes warmth and coziness through materials such as spotted-gum veneer kitchen cabinetry, travertine benchtops and bathroom tiles, and polished concrete flooring. This neutral base allows for personalization through soft furnishings and contemporary artworks by local artists, which introduce summery and playful colors. Collaboration was a key aspect of the project, with long-time friends architect Hayley Pryor and landscape designer/carpenter Rhys Heggie contributing their expertise. Hayley Pryor was instrumental in proposing the two separate courtyards and the detached studio. The construction itself was largely a hands-on effort by Jack and Rhys, involving long days but ultimately resulting in a home that surpassed expectations. Material choices throughout the house were inspired by the landscape, featuring organic and simple finishes selected for their textural and tonal qualities. The kitchen combines spotted gum cabinetry with overhead MDF cabinets in Moss Grey, complemented by a travertine benchtop. In the bathrooms, travertine flooring and custom-made spotted-gum mirrors reflect the natural theme. The landscape design incorporates Australian native plantings such as coastal pigface, kangaroo paw, and banksia and blueberry ash trees, thriving in the local climate. The living zone boasts a soaring raked ceiling and louvered windows that facilitate cooling breezes and cross-ventilation, especially during warmer seasons. Expansive glazing throughout the home frames views of the lush courtyards. Though the couple has since sold the house, they express immense pride in their first joint project, emphasizing the journey from an initial idea to a tangible home and the value of teamwork. #JapaneseStyleHome #CoastalLiving #CourtyardDesign #SustainableDesign #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ArchitecturalInnovation #MaterialPalette #LennoxHead

Metaphor Interior Architecture, a Jakarta-based interior design consultancy, services clients globally. This firm, composed of creative individuals, aims to provide optimal design solutions, specifically focusing on The Zora Kanade cluster. Christine, a senior associate, spearheads the design for Kanade Type 12. She reveals that her prior work on the Samasana Club House at The Zora provided a foundational understanding of the developer's design aspirations for the Kanade Cluster, which she extended to its three show unit houses. Her approach to the design brief involved analyzing the high-end target market and varied price points of the three housing units to determine appropriate interior design concepts. This led to distinct designs for each show unit, all incorporating a Japanese sensibility tailored for a modern, affluent demographic. Christine explains that the Japanese philosophy is translated not through direct imitation, but through the principle of 'balancing,' akin to Zen philosophy. This balance is evident in the harmonious use of colors, materials, and room composition, which collectively contribute to the desired ambiance. Elaborating on design balance, Christine highlights that each room's decor aligns with its function. For instance, a spacious area between the living and dining rooms demonstrates their strategy for balancing different zones within a single space. They also collaborate with Henco Home Decor to supply custom-designed furniture. Regarding color palettes, earth tones like brown or gray form the base, augmented by accent colors such as burnt orange, teal, and combinations thereof. While orange might not be traditionally Japanese, teal and olive are chosen for their natural associations, reflecting leaf colors. These accent colors are strategically employed to infuse a modern and luxurious feel into the Japanese aesthetic. Acknowledging the Japanese preference for simplicity, Christine clarifies that the target market's demand for luxury necessitated a nuanced approach to color, resulting in a unique modern atmosphere. The three show units, contrary to having a common thread, are each designed with distinct interior concepts to cater to their specific target markets. For example, the Type 12 unit targets a mature clientele prioritizing luxury, while Type 8+ and Type 10 units are designed with younger families in mind, featuring more youthful aesthetics. To ensure each unit resonates with potential buyers, the design process incorporates diverse consumer style preferences. These customer needs are then translated into unique designs for each unit, varying in color and overall concept. Material selection prioritizes both aesthetics and ease of maintenance, with choices like solid surface, marble, or laminate ensuring durability and practicality. #InteriorDesign #JapaneseDesign #LuxuryHomes #MetaphorInteriorArchitecture #HomeDecoration #DesignPhilosophy #ColorPalette #MaterialSelection

In the high-density HDB public housing precinct of Sengkang, Singapore, nitton architects, led by Lee Liting and Chow Khoon Toong, undertook the renovation of an 1,184-square-foot, three-bedroom apartment. Their objective was to transform this humble space into a contemporary dwelling that prioritizes functionality and adapts to the inhabitants' lifestyles, drawing inspiration from the ingenious micro homes found in Japan. The renovation began with the removal of all non load-bearing walls, a strategic decision that immediately enhanced the apartment's airiness and spatial perception. This foundational change allowed for a more flexible reconfiguration of the living areas. Two of the original bedrooms were eliminated to create a more expansive master bedroom and living room. This re-prioritization of space was central to achieving a sense of openness. Additionally, the architects incorporated a new indoor garden and a highly adaptable guest room, reflecting a deliberate effort to integrate nature and multi-functional spaces within the urban residential context. Lee Liting emphasized the goal of redefining high-density housing in Singapore by introducing abstract and atmospheric qualities, mirroring the authentic living spaces seen in Japanese micro homes that genuinely reflect the inhabitants’ needs and routines. A key element of the redesign is the flexible guest room. This space can transition seamlessly into a playroom, an extension of the living area, or a private bedroom, thanks to the inclusion of privacy curtains and two concealed built-in beds—a wall-bed and a pull-out bed beneath the indoor garden’s raised timber deck. Sliding wooden doors provide further privacy when needed, and can stack flush against the wall when not in use. The creation of an indoor garden was a compensatory measure after the existing yard space was converted into a larger kitchen. This garden not only introduces greenery into the home but also functions as a central hallway, connecting the master bedroom to the main living spaces and replacing the traditional internal corridor layout. The aesthetic of the apartment incorporates materials and elements that evoke Singapore's lush outdoors. An abundance of natural light, timber accents, and integrated greenery contribute to a serene and visually uplifting environment. The open-plan living room and dining area feature a cementitious floor covering from Ardex Pandomo, ERCO recessed LEDs, and EDL cabinetry laminates, creating a cohesive and modern interior. The architects noted that the open-plan layout is intended to be emotionally uplifting, offering a welcome retreat from the crowdedness of urban living. They believe that this design approach allows the space to 'breathe and become alive,' adapting throughout the day to different routines. Further design considerations include a master bathroom where the vanity and sink have been relocated adjacent to a full-height wardrobe, which also serves as a divider. This adjustment freed up space for both a bathtub and a separate shower stall, enhancing the functionality and luxury of the master suite. The overall architectural approach, described as a 'purist approach toward architectural space-making,' aims to transcend the typical confines of an apartment, offering a liberating way of living for its inhabitants. The project successfully demonstrates how thoughtful design, inspired by compact living solutions, can transform a high-density urban apartment into a flexible, spacious, and harmonious home. #JapaneseInspired #FlexibleSpaces #SingaporeDesign #ApartmentRenovation #MicroHomeConcepts #SpaceSavingTechniques #OpenPlanLiving #IndoorGarden

Kengo Kuma, a prolific and versatile Japanese architect, has been making significant contributions to the world of architecture, marked by his recent completion of his first U.S. public commission in Portland and the ongoing construction of the stadium for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Kuma's architectural philosophy is characterized by a modernist interpretation of traditional Japanese design principles, emphasizing the innovative use of sustainable materials to seamlessly integrate structures into their natural and urban surroundings. His works often highlight a profound respect for context and a desire to create spaces that blend with their environment rather than dominating it. Among his notable projects is the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center in Tokyo, Japan, which stands near the historic Sensō-ji temple. This center employs a contemporary architectural language to reference traditional Japanese construction, presenting a vertical stack of smaller structures with asymmetrical roofs that mirrors the vibrant energy of its neighborhood. In China's Sichuan Province, the Xin Jin Zhi Museum Chengdu, situated at the base of Laojunshan Mountain, explores themes of light and water. The museum features an elegant facade draped with floating tiles, allowing natural light to filter through during the day and illuminating beautifully at night. The Komatsu Seirin Fabric Laboratory in Ishikawa, Japan, showcases Kuma's innovative approach to renovation. This three-story office building, which serves as a workspace, exhibition, and research facility, incorporates cutting-edge carbon fiber technology for earthquake resistance. This material, ten times stronger than iron and inspired by local braiding techniques, was used for structural reinforcement for the first time in this project. The LVMH Headquarters in Osaka, Japan, is a multi-use building housing boutiques and offices. Its exterior is clad in a thin layer of onyx plates from Pakistan, sliced to four millimeters and sandwiched between glass, creating a luminous stone box effect at night in the bustling city center. For the Aitoku Kindergarten in Saitama, Japan, Kuma designed an early childhood education center with multiple pitched roofs made of wood and steel, angled to reflect the town's landscape and provide a cozy learning environment. SunnyHills at Minami-Aoyama in Tokyo, a patisserie for a Taiwanese pineapple cake company, features a nest-like structure crafted from Hinoki (Japanese cypress) using the traditional "Jigoku Gumi" construction method, allowing abundant natural light to create a bright and airy interior. Green Cast in Odawara-shi, Kanagawa, Japan, is a mixed-use building whose facade consists of aluminum die-cast planters. These planters, created with monobloc casting, help cool the interiors while facilitating natural daylight and ventilation. The Yufeng Spa Resort in Yunnan Province, China, draws inspiration from the nearby holy Yunfengshan Mountain. Kuma arranged the resort buildings to mimic the flow of spiritual energy from the mountain, using locally sourced stones laid in a mosaic pattern to achieve a pixelated effect. The Mont-Blanc Base Camp in Les Houches, France, designed as the headquarters for Blue Ice, a climbing and mountaineering company, integrates with its forest environment through a facade made of thick oak panels, echoing the surrounding trees. The building's wide oak plank roof harmonizes with the terrain. The Nezu Museum of Art in Tokyo, Japan, positioned behind a bamboo row near an upscale shopping district, successfully merges urbanity with nature. Its unique roof design and bamboo-lined approach blend the interior space with the garden. In Oregon, the Portland Japanese Garden Cultural Village expansion project benefited from Kuma's expertise in traditional Japanese design. The expansion, considered the most authentic Japanese Garden outside Japan, references the Katsura Villa in Kyoto, with glass walls and wooden screens that open to integrate architecture and nature within Portland's urban forest. Finally, Kuma's design for the Japan National Stadium in Tokyo, chosen for the 2020 Olympics, pays homage to traditional Japanese temples. This "urban forest" concept incorporates plants and trees on every level, a large oculus above the track, and a latticed larch-and-steel canopy, reportedly inspired by his work on the Portland Japanese Garden. #KengoKuma #JapaneseArchitecture #SustainableDesign #ModernArchitecture #ArchitecturalInnovation #CulturalIntegration #UrbanForestConcept #MaterialInnovation #TokyoOlympics

This article presents the 'House in Tama' project, designed by Cheng Hao Chung Architect, located on the border of Kanagawa and Tokyo, Japan. The house is situated on the southern slope of a hill, offering ample sunlight and a clear atmosphere, despite being in a dense residential neighborhood. The design approach for this 116 square meter residence, completed in 2024, focused on integrating with the natural topography and maximizing light and views while ensuring privacy and comfort for the inhabitants. The architectural concept emphasizes a multi-layered structure that adapts to the sloping site. The design creates a sequence of distinct yet interconnected spaces, each with its own relationship to the exterior environment. The architects utilized a combination of concrete, wood, and glass as primary materials, contributing to both the structural integrity and the aesthetic of the house. Concrete provides a robust foundation and defines the main volumes, while wood introduces warmth and texture in interior finishes. Large glass panels are strategically placed to blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing natural light to penetrate deeply into the living areas and offering framed views of the surrounding landscape and the distant Buddhist cemetery. A key aspect of the design is the careful consideration of the site's unique characteristics. The building form responds to the contours of the hill, creating a stepped profile that minimizes its visual impact and blends with the terrain. The internal layout is organized to take advantage of the southern orientation for optimal sunlight exposure and to create a comfortable microclimate within the house. The use of varied ceiling heights and spatial configurations contributes to a dynamic and engaging living experience, moving from more intimate, enclosed areas to expansive, open-plan zones that facilitate family interaction and entertaining. The project involved collaboration with structural engineer Jun Yanagimuro and constructor Sekkeikomu. The construction process highlighted attention to detail in material selection and craftsmanship, aiming for a durable and aesthetically pleasing outcome. The interior spaces feature a minimalist aesthetic, allowing the quality of materials and the interplay of light and shadow to define the atmosphere. The design includes functional elements such as a modern kitchen, comfortable living areas, and private bedrooms, all designed with a focus on usability and long-term sustainability. Overall, the House in Tama demonstrates an architectural solution that responds thoughtfully to its context, balancing modern design principles with respect for the natural and cultural landscape. The project showcases how a residential building in a challenging urban-natural interface can achieve both architectural distinction and a high quality of life for its residents through careful planning, material selection, and a strong conceptual vision. The dwelling serves as a contemporary example of Japanese residential architecture, prioritizing light, views, and a harmonious relationship with its immediate surroundings. #ResidentialArchitecture #JapaneseArchitecture #ModernDesign #SlopingSite #NaturalLight #Concrete #Wood #Glass #UrbanIntegration #SustainableDesign

This project details the construction of a compact office building situated within a residential area in Kitakyushu, Japan. The primary occupant is Ecoplan Corporation, a company specializing in wildlife and vegetation studies. The architectural design, a collaboration between Furumori Koichi architectural design studio and Daiju Kuwahara, was completed in 2024 and spans an area of 444 square meters. Kyoko Omori provided the photographic documentation for the project. The lead architectural team included Koichi Furumori, Kohei Hashisako, and Kenichi Anai, with Daiju Kuwahara also playing a key role. Structural engineering was handled by Kenichiro Takashima, while Tomohiro Urata was responsible for the landscape architecture. Azuma Kensetsu served as the general contractor for the construction. The project integrates into a residential neighborhood, emphasizing a design that harmonizes with its surroundings. The choice of Ecoplan Corporation as the tenant suggests a focus on environmental considerations, potentially influencing material selection and design elements. The building’s modest size indicates a tailored approach to meet the specific needs of the company, rather than a large-scale commercial development. The involvement of multiple specialists, including structural engineers and landscape architects, highlights a comprehensive design and construction process, ensuring both structural integrity and aesthetic integration with the site's natural elements. The architecture likely considers aspects such as natural light, ventilation, and material sustainability, given the tenant's focus on environmental research. Photographs by Kyoko Omori capture various aspects of the building, including interior spaces, exterior views, and possibly details of material use. The images, which include wood and glass elements, suggest a design that incorporates natural materials and maximizes transparency to foster a connection with the outdoors. The mention of beams in some image descriptions indicates structural expression within the interior, contributing to the overall aesthetic. Aerial views and cityscape images would provide context regarding the building's placement within Kitakyushu’s urban fabric and its relationship to the broader environment. Key design features potentially include a thoughtful integration of wood, which can offer warmth and a natural feel to the office environment. Glass components would allow for ample natural light, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and enhancing the working atmosphere. The phrase "Office in the Breeze" in the title hints at a design that facilitates natural airflow and promotes a comfortable indoor climate. This could involve strategically placed windows, balconies, or other architectural elements designed to harness prevailing winds. The building's category as "Commercial Architecture" within a residential context suggests a nuanced approach to zoning and community integration, possibly requiring sensitive design choices to blend functionality with neighborhood character. The collaboration between two design studios implies a rich exchange of ideas and expertise, likely leading to an innovative and well-considered architectural solution. The project serves as an example of contemporary commercial architecture in Japan, demonstrating how design can respond to both client needs and environmental considerations within a specific urban setting. The area of 444 square meters signifies a mid-sized project that allows for detailed attention to both functional layout and aesthetic quality, potentially incorporating flexible workspaces to support Ecoplan Corporation’s research activities. #CommercialArchitecture #JapaneseArchitecture #Kitakyushu #OfficeDesign #WoodArchitecture #GlassArchitecture #EnvironmentalDesign #KyokoOmori

Blue Bottle Coffee has opened its eighth outpost in Japan and its first in Kyoto, situated in a historic 100-year-old building near the 13th-century Nanzen-ji temple and garden. This new cafe offers a tranquil retreat at the end of an unassuming alleyway, known locally as a kyomachiya, or ‘eel’s nest,’ due to its narrow opening and spacious courtyard entrance. The design concept for this new establishment beautifully merges the building's historical integrity with the modern brand culture of Blue Bottle Coffee. The interior design, largely devoid of overt branding, emphasizes the building's original character. Extensive use of wood throughout the cafe, coupled with preserved architectural elements like exposed wall patches and intricately carved beams and wooden pillars, pays homage to the structure’s century-long heritage. Schemata Architects’ Jo Nagasaka led the design, focusing on subtle modifications that blend traditional Japanese tranquility with contemporary comfort. For instance, the entryway and floor were lowered, allowing visitors to enter seamlessly while wearing shoes. Outside, paths of terrazzo mixed with crushed white gravel were laid, echoing the traditional aesthetics of old Kyoto neighborhoods. This specific Blue Bottle Coffee location in Kyoto offers not only the brand’s signature coffee, espresso, cold brew, and New Orleans-style iced coffee but also an exclusive selection of seasonal pastries. These include green tea mint cookies, which are only available at this Kyoto cafe. The aim is to provide a unique experience that reflects the local culture and the serene environment of its historic setting. The thoughtful integration of old and new elements creates a space that is both respectful of its past and relevant to its present, offering a distinctive coffee experience that aligns with Japan's renowned precision, beauty, and craft in coffee culture. #KyotoArchitecture #BlueBottleCoffee #JapaneseDesign #ZenArchitecture #CafeDesign #HistoricPreservation #SchemataArchitects #CoffeeCulture

Atelieramo, a design studio, has completed the interior design for Bao Express, a Chinese restaurant located near Bastille in the 11th arrondissement of Paris. The restaurant specializes in dim sum and bao buns and is housed in a former button factory, encompassing a 500-square-metre space. The interior concept, overseen by architect Tala Gharagozlou and designer Virginie de Graveron, draws inspiration from the architecture and pop culture of 1970s Hong Kong, particularly its cha chaan tengs, which are traditional greasy spoon cafes. The design aims to create distinct yet interconnected spaces within the restaurant, consisting of a bakery, a diner, and a basement bar. The studio’s approach was to reinterpret elements of Hong Kong’s urban atmosphere, incorporating pastel colors, colored pavings, neon lights, and a rich mix of patterns and motifs. The intention was to evoke a unique atmosphere for Bao Express rather than simply replicating a specific decor style. Significant structural alterations were made to the abandoned building, including modifications to floor plates, the addition of a new staircase, and reconfigured circulation paths. Upon entering from the street, customers encounter a bakery and cafe area that serves snacks for dine-in or takeaway. This front section, which appears as a simple neighborhood cafe, discreetly leads to the larger dining areas located deeper within the building. The kitchens are designed to be visible from the street, and guests walk past displays of colorful raw produce before passing through a metal curtain to access the main diner. The main dining space features comfortable booths with curved wooden frames, complemented by pastel-green walls. Custom-designed bright-red sconces and mosaic panels, which mimic the materials of the central bar, provide contrasting accents. Towards the rear of the building, a larger dining area is situated under an expansive skylight, making it bright and airy. This space is adorned with plants, creating a winter garden-like dining experience. The exposed masonry walls are painted in a celadon-green shade, forming a playful color palette with peach and pink elements visible in the glossy tabletops. The design studio’s use of color and pattern extends to geometric tiled floors and bold black-and-white stripes painted on the walls of the staircase that descends to the basement bar, named Underpool. The Underpool bar area features a distinctive hammered-metal ceiling installation created by French artist SupaKitch. The rippled surface of the artwork reflects the bar's blue-green interior, designed to give the impression of looking up at an inverted swimming pool. Bao Express is part of a family of eateries in Paris owned by restaurateurs Céline Chung and Billy Pham, with Atelieramo having designed several of their establishments, each with a unique character inspired by different facets of Chinese culture. The project highlights a contemporary interpretation of traditional Hong Kong diner aesthetics in a Parisian setting. #ChineseRestaurant #ParisInteriorDesign #Atelieramo #HongKongDiner #RetroDesign #RestaurantInterior #CulturalInspiration #SupaKitchArt #UrbanAtmosphere

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

A New Hampshire family, seeking a city pied-àterre in Boston, commissioned Desiree Burns of Desiree Burns Interiors to design a space that encapsulates the Japandi aesthetic. This design philosophy, a fusion of Japanese minimalism and Scandinavian functionality, was particularly appealing to Burns, who had recently returned from a trip to Japan, inspired by contemporary and functional interiors. The project involved a collaborative effort between the clients and Burns to achieve a minimal-organic style, primarily utilizing a neutral color palette. Burns highlighted several exquisite details within the home. In the living room, a custom floating white oak media console and a slatted feature wall were central elements. These pieces were meticulously crafted by New England Custom Cabinetry. Complementing these custom fixtures, wabi-sabi sconces were installed on either side, along with an integrated, hidden custom-LED strip along the crown molding to provide ambient lighting, enhancing the room's serene atmosphere. The primary bedroom features a subtle yet captivating vignette. This area was adorned with Japandi-inspired greenery and various accessories. To maintain the neutral color palette while adding visual interest, white plastered artwork was incorporated, providing texture without introducing additional color. This approach ensured a calming and cohesive aesthetic throughout the private space. The dining area showcases the core principles of Japandi style through its selection of furnishings and decor. Cloud pendants were chosen as a significant design element, strongly reflecting the overarching theme. Custom art prints, sourced from artexplore.net, further reinforced the aesthetic with their neutral color palette and organic stone shapes. A white oak dining table from lekkerhome.com, paired with matching chairs, contributes to an earthy and grounded feel, fostering a sense of natural tranquility. In the bedroom, the clients expressed a desire for a low-profile, modern bed frame, which was sourced from roveconcepts.com. A chaise lounge was strategically placed along the window, creating a dedicated reading nook with a view. The overall design intention for this space was to evoke a calming and serene environment, allowing for relaxation and repose. The designer's favorite elements, such as the custom floating media console and the slatted feature wall in the living room, underscore the project's commitment to bespoke and thoughtfully integrated design. The collaboration between the clients' vision and Burns's expertise resulted in a home that perfectly balances the simplicity, natural materials, and sophisticated comfort characteristic of Japandi design. #JapandiStyle #InteriorDesign #BostonHomes #DesireeBurnsInteriors #MinimalistDesign #ScandinavianDesign #JapaneseDesign #CustomCabinetry #NeutralPalette

Giselle Go and Philippe Terrien, co-founders of the Japanese clean beauty brand DamDam, embarked on a search for a tranquil weekend retreat near Tokyo. Their initial criteria included proximity to the city, high privacy, and a mountainside location. After a prolonged search, a friend, Naoko Kawamura, introduced them to a 75-year-old property overlooking the Pacific Ocean and Mount Fuji. The house, initially dilapidated, held historical significance as it was built by American postwar photojournalist Horace Bristol, known for his work on John Steinbeck’s 'Grapes of Wrath' and for magazines like 'Life,' 'Time,' and 'National Geographic' in the 1950s. Recognizing the challenges of renovating such an old property, especially one situated on protected heritage land, the couple enlisted the expertise of Motosuke Mandai of Mandai Architects. Their vision was to revive the house while preserving its past and integrating modern comforts. A significant part of the renovation involved working closely with the local temple that oversees the protected area to ensure all regulations were met. The couple meticulously retained original elements like wood beams, ceilings, and shoji screens. When original features such as the wood floors or the wood-burning stove could not be salvaged, they were replaced with identical materials to maintain the house's authentic character. The entrance to the home functions as both an entryway and a mudroom, where it is customary to remove shoes and don soft house slippers, a Japanese tradition. This space features a Hang-It-All coatrack by Eames for Herman Miller, a stool by Timber Crew, and a washi tray by Craig Ancelowitz, both for DamDam Atelier. Artwork includes a calligraphy on canvas by Mikiko Kayama and a wall sculpture by Yuichiro Kobayashi. The living room, a favorite indoor spot for the couple, boasts an Akari 21A pendant light by Isamu Noguchi, an Archimoon Soft table lamp by Philippe Starck for Flos, and Glo-ball table and floor lamps by Jasper Morrison for Flos. The sofa is an N701 modular model from Ethnicraft, complemented by an Airframe coffee table by David Chipperfield for Cassina. This room offers direct views of the sunset over the sea, with garden-facing windows framing the sofa, and features a wood-burning stove for winter warmth. The dining room serves as a dual-purpose workspace. Original shoji screens provide privacy from the north-side bamboo, while the room opens to sea views on the west. This area includes a Flowerpot Verner Panton 1968 pendant light from &Tradition, Series 7 dining chairs by Arne Jacobsen for Fritz Hansen, and an Airframe dining table by David Chipperfield for Cassina, which was restored with a new walnut-wood top by Timber Crew. Custom shelving by Douguya and an Akari 3x table lamp by Isamu Noguchi further personalize the space, along with washi artwork and a painting by Philippe’s son, James. The kitchen, a beloved space for Philippe, was enlarged by removing an old bathroom, placing it centrally within the home with garden access. To address the lack of natural light, Motosuke Mandai incorporated floor-to-ceiling windows into the traditional ranma (wall panels), creating the illusion of a floating roof and flooding the interiors with sunlight. An engawa, a traditional Japanese hallway, was transformed into a sunroom, enlarged and opened to a seaside deck for sunset aperitifs and gardening activities. This room is furnished with an Akari 1AG table lamp by Isamu Noguchi, an antique rattan table, a vintage lounge chair, and a Malawi chair from Couleur Locale. The decor reflects the multicultural backgrounds of Giselle, who is Filipino, and Philippe, who is French, blending midcentury-modern design, vintage finds, Japanese crafts, and textiles from their travels. The furniture, much of which was crafted by artisans known to them, imbues the home with a personal touch. The only fully enclosed room is the bedroom, which offers a private sanctuary feel, without glass windows on the ranma. The bed frame is by Timber Crew, and the table lamp is the Archimoon Soft by Philippe Starck for Flos. Wood stools designed by Timber Crew for DamDam Atelier complete the room. A large ofuro (bathtub) at the end of the bathroom provides a relaxing space. The interior design blends Japanese architectural elements like sugi-finish floors and preserved pinewood ceilings with a diverse collection of furnishings, embodying an old-world travel museum aesthetic that reflects the owners’ journeys and personal connections. #JapaneseHouse #ZenHideaway #HistoricRenovation #InteriorDesign #TokyoHome #ArchitecturalDesign #MidCenturyModern #MulticulturalDecor #DamDam