Elevating Airport Hospitality: OMO Kansai Airport’s Playful Design Celebrates the Art of Travel

OMO Kansai Airport by Hoshino Resorts, designed by MITSUI Designtec Co., Ltd., offers a unique airport hotel experience. It is the first OMO-branded hotel within an airport, and it involved renovating an existing hotel directly connected to Kansai International Airport, Japan's most significant air gateway to the west. The hotel's location, just steps away from the airport's terminal, ensures a stress-free and convenient stay, providing you with a sense of reassurance and ease. The design combines functionality with a playful urban aesthetic, inviting guests to view their journey as more than just transit but as an integral part of their travel adventure.

The hotel's architectural concept is centred around adding "fun" to the guest experience, making it an extension of their journey and a destination. MITSUI Designtec approached the renovation with a focus on balancing practicality and aesthetic innovation. The hotel's design subtly incorporates elements of aviation and the excitement of travel. Notable features include an intricately crafted airplane object as the focal point in the lobby and lighting fixtures that resemble the dynamic form of an airplane turbine. These elements bring a sense of motion and energy to the space, capturing the spirit of flight. They are not just decorative but are intended to immerse guests in the travel experience, visually connecting them to the airport environment while maintaining an elegant, contemporary interior.

The hotel's design takes into account the needs of modern travellers. The spacious, streamlined interiors offer a peaceful retreat from the bustling airport atmosphere, ensuring that you can relax and recharge during your stay. The intentionally neutral colour palette, complemented by warm accents and natural materials, creates a welcoming and functional environment. This calm yet engaging atmosphere provides guests with a space to relax, whether they are staying for a brief stopover or a more extended layover, despite the transient nature of airports.

The OMO Kansai Airport emphasizes convenience and ease of movement. The hotel is located just steps away from the airport's terminal and offers unique services such as the 'Airporter' luggage delivery, which allows guests to streamline their travel experience from check-in to check-out. This service is a testament to our commitment to making your stay as stress-free as possible. The overall design facilitates a smooth and efficient stay, with a playful edge that reflects OMO's exciting mission to turn ordinary city experiences into memorable adventures. This promise of adventure is sure to pique the interest of any traveller.

At OMO Kansai Airport, modern travel seamlessly combines functional and whimsical design. MITSUI Designtec's approach creates a space where guests can transition between worlds - whether it's between different time zones, flights, or destinations - while enjoying carefully curated design that enhances the joy of movement, travel, and discovery. This is not just a hotel; it's the perfect bridge between the excitement of journeying and the comfort of arriving.

For more information, please visit: https://www.mitsui-designtec.co.jp/

*This project is one of the shortlisted project in the Sky Design Awards 2024 - Interior Design - Hotel & Resorts Division

Sora-kan: A Harmonious Blend of Nature and Artistry in the Heart of Beppu designed by MITSUI Designtec Co.,Ltd.

Located in the heart of Beppu's stunning landscape, where lush mountains meet the expansive seas, the newly unveiled Suginoi Hotel Sora-kan, designed by MITSUI Designtec Co., Ltd., sets a new standard for hospitality. As the flagship of the rejuvenated Suginoi Hotel, Sora-kan seamlessly blends contemporary design with Beppu's cultural and natural richness, creating an immersive experience that appeals to both first-time and seasoned travellers.

The design is centred around the 'Fugetsu' concept, which pays homage to the natural elements of Beppu - wind, moon, and nature's bounty. The facade visually embodies this concept with dynamic louvres arranged in rhythmic patterns, representing the gentle breezes of the region. These louvres serve an aesthetic purpose and function as a passive environmental control, reducing solar heat and maintaining a relaxed, comfortable interior environment throughout the year. This architectural element symbolizes the delicate balance between human-made structures and the natural environment.

As guests enter, they are immediately greeted by the artwork of master artisan Naoki Kusumi. Kusumi's expansive plaster art captures the essence of Beppu's winds in a fluid, organic form. This bold gesture sets the tone for the lobby, where art and architecture come together to guide guests through the space. The tactile quality of Kusumi's plaster work, with its intricate textures, invites closer inspection, while its sweeping curves create a dynamic sense of movement that mirrors the natural forces outside.

The design integrates locally sourced materials to connect with nature. Beppu stone, a symbol of the region's volcanic heritage, is used in both the exterior and interior, grounding the hotel in its surroundings. Additionally, bamboo crafts, Onta-yaki pottery, and Beppu shibori textiles are incorporated into the decor, providing a tactile narrative that connects guests to the craftsmanship of local artisans. These design choices reflect Beppu's cultural identity and promote the sustainability of traditional crafts, adding depth to the hotel's aesthetic.

The lobby is a masterpiece of spatial choreography. Pendant lights that resemble delicate soap bubbles hover above, casting soft, playful shadows. These subtle nods to natural elements evoke a sense of lightness and serenity. In contrast, the restaurant on the ground floor presents a bolder statement with its deep blue-tiled floors, echoing the vastness of Beppu Bay. This dramatic colour palette is balanced by panoramic windows that offer sweeping views of the bay, inviting the outside world into the dining experience. Every detail in the design speaks to a deliberate interaction between the built environment and the natural world."

The most remarkable feature of Sora-kan is its top-floor infinity spa, which is situated 50 meters above ground level. Here, guests can enjoy an uninterrupted view of Beppu Bay that changes with the light and weather, providing a unique experience with each visit. The spa's minimalist design is intended to keep the focus on the natural beauty of the surroundings, creating a peaceful space where guests can fully immerse themselves in the tranquillity of the region's famous hot springs. The spa is not just a place to relax but a physical representation of the 'Fugetsu' concept, where the sea, sky, and mountains blend seamlessly.

The guest rooms provide an immersive experience with three distinct design themes: 'Aoumi' (Blue Sea), 'Shinrin' (Forest), and 'Yunagi' (Evening Calm), each reflecting a different aspect of Beppu's natural landscape. Full-height windows in every room enhance the connection to nature, allowing natural light to flood the interiors and framing views of the surrounding landscape. The room designs are not just a backdrop but an integral part of the guest experience, encouraging a more profound sense of relaxation and reflection. With suites designed to cater to various preferences, Sora-kan invites repeat visits by offering guests a fresh perspective with every stay.

"Beyond its interiors, the hotel's outdoor spaces have been meticulously crafted to engage guests of all ages. The Soraniwagarden is not merely decorative but a space for exploration and interaction. Children can enjoy the playful Fuwafuwa-Dome trampoline while photo spots featuring oversized sculptures of local specialties, such as shiitake mushrooms, kabosu citrus, and Asagimadara butterflies, offer whimsical moments of discovery. These installations, which blend art with regional identity, celebrate Beppu's cultural heritage and deep connection to nature.

Suginoi Hotel Sora-kan is more than just a place to stay—it's a destination, offering a curated experience where design, nature, and local culture converge. The hotel's thoughtful integration of Beppu's natural and cultural elements into its architecture and design creates an environment where guests are surrounded by beauty and encouraged to engage with it on a deeper level. Whether relaxing in the infinity spa, enjoying locally inspired cuisine, or exploring the artful installations, guests are continually invited to discover the richness of Beppu in a modern and timeless way."

With its unparalleled attention to detail and commitment to promoting the local culture and environment, Sora-kan is set to become a must-visit destination for discerning travellers seeking an authentic, luxurious, and enriching experience in Japan's onsen capital.

For more information, please visit: https://www.mitsui-designtec.co.jp
*This project is one of the shortlisted project in the Sky Design Awards 2024 - Interior Design: Hotel & Resorts Division

A Sanctuary of Serenity: The Wellness Suite at RUSUTSU RESORT, designed by MITSUI DESIGNTEC, Redefines Luxury and Holistic Well-Being

The Wellness Room Project at the RUSUTSU RESORT HOTEL, a vision brought to life by the innovative team at MITSUI DESIGNTEC, represents a bold new frontier in integrating wellness and luxury hospitality. This exceptional suite is not just a room, but a meticulously crafted experience where the natural world and modern design coalesce to create a sanctuary that transcends the ordinary. It stands as a testament to how design can profoundly impact our well-being, offering guests a transformative journey that reconnects them with nature in the most sophisticated of settings, inspiring and rejuvenating them.

At the core of this endeavour lies a profound grasp of the interconnectedness between nature, water, light, fire, sound, scent, and human well-being. MITSUI DESIGNTEC has adeptly interwoven these elements into the essence of the suite, crafting an environment that nurtures the mind, body, and spirit. The incorporation of organic materials, such as wood and stone, not only mirrors the surrounding landscape of Hokkaido but also fosters a tangible connection to the earth, grounding guests in a profound sense of belonging.

The wellness room is designed with subtlety and sophistication in mind. The colour palette is understated yet rich in texture, allowing natural materials to stand out. The layout is intentionally open to encourage a flow that reflects the rhythms of nature, and the large windows bring in natural light and offer panoramic views of the landscape. Every detail, from furniture placement to finish selection, has been carefully considered to enhance the guest's connection to the natural world.

This project's hospitality concept extends beyond mere comfort; it aims to establish an environment that fosters holistic well-being. The RUSUTSU RESORT HOTEL WELLNESS ROOM exemplifies this principle by offering a variety of carefully crafted experiences designed to revitalize and ignite inspiration. The private bath, serving as the focal point of the suite, is not simply a place for unwinding but rather a personal sanctuary where the healing qualities of water are leveraged to promote physical and emotional rejuvenation. The room's adaptable ambient lighting, designed to accommodate different moods and times of day, aligns with the body's natural rhythms, enhancing sleep quality and overall relaxation.

Immerse yourself in a multi-sensory experience where sound and scent play pivotal roles. Our carefully selected soundscapes, inspired by the calming whispers of nature, provide a soothing backdrop that soothes the mind. Meanwhile, the gentle fragrance of incense, chosen for its meditative properties, envelops the space, creating an atmosphere of serenity and tranquillity. Together, these elements synergize to establish a profoundly relaxing and refreshing space.

The RUSUTSU RESORT HOTEL WELLNESS ROOM PROJECT is more than a luxurious escape; it is a pioneering example of how design can elevate the hospitality experience to new heights. It invites guests to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with the essence of life in a space that is as beautiful as nurturing. MITSUI DESIGNTEC has created a room and a holistic wellness experience that redefines what it means to find true relaxation in the modern world. The RUSUTSU RESORT HOTEL WELLNESS ROOM PROJECT is more than just a luxurious escape; it is a pioneering example of how design can elevate the hospitality experience to new heights. It invites guests to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with the essence of life in a space that is as beautiful as nurturing. MITSUI DESIGNTEC has created a room and a holistic wellness experience that redefines what it means to find true relaxation in the modern world.

For those seeking an extraordinary retreat, the wellness suite at RUSUTSU RESORT offers an unparalleled journey into the heart of nature and luxury.

For more information, please visit: https://www.mitsui-designtec.co.jp/

*This project is one of the shortlisted project in the Sky Design Awards 2024 - Interior Design -Hotel & Resorts Division