A New Landmark: Tatsuya Kawamoto + Associates Redefines Community Space
In a visionary project by Tatsuya Kawamoto + Associates, a new landmark has been meticulously crafted to redefine the urban landscape. This ambitious endeavour, which harnessed innovative design and construction methods, utilized two sites on opposite sides of a road to create a seamless, integrated space.
In a visionary project by Tatsuya Kawamoto + Associates, a new landmark has been meticulously crafted to redefine the urban landscape. This ambitious endeavour, which harnessed innovative design and construction methods, utilized two sites on opposite sides of a road to create a seamless, integrated space. The complex includes a florist, a plant shop, and a café, transcending traditional site boundaries and treating the road as an intrinsic part of the unified landscape.
"The design includes a U-shaped glass façade that allows visitors to easily move between the garden and interior spaces. This see-through design makes the building accessible from any direction, creating a welcoming environment. To better connect the indoors and outdoors, the eaves extend 2.7 meters above the ground, creating a friendly intermediate area. This area is designed for relaxation and community engagement."
A significant challenge we faced was maximizing the spatial volume without partition walls. We were able to address this issue ingeniously by using the innovative 'stacked beam' method. This method involved local craftsmen combining three smaller beams on-site to create a longer beam, instead of using a single, expensive, large beam. This not only helped us work within material constraints but also highlighted the significance of local craftsmanship and the use of regionally sourced lumber.
The project is intensely focused on community involvement. The client's goal of creating a significant space was achieved with the help of local artisans, instilling a sense of pride and connection to the project. The materials and textures used in the building, such as natural stone roof tiles and custom-mixed interior plaster, were carefully chosen and crafted by local experts. A single craftsman spent over six months laying 20,000 pieces of natural stone on the roof, while rough stones collected over two years were thoughtfully integrated into the interior design.
One significant moment in the project's timeline was the use of an old piece of wood for the entrance door. This door, which was salvaged from a local building slated for demolition, required a new construction method. However, the local craftsmen rose to the challenge. They designed and installed the door on the spot, aligning with the design intent and the client's vision, and contributing to the project's sustainability and resourcefulness.
Over five years, the collaboration between the client and local craftsmen led to the creation of a new landmark in the town. This project showcases the strength of local craftsmanship and community teamwork, resulting in a functional complex that symbolizes collective effort and creativity. The project's timeline, from its inception to its completion, is a testament to the dedication and hard work of all involved.
This project has been shortlisted for the Sky Design Awards 2024 in the Architecture division.
For more information, please visit: http://tatsuyakawamoto.com/
A Journey-Enhancing Destination - HOTEL METROPOLITAN TOKYO HANEDA designed by NIKKEN SPACE DESIGN LTD
At Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo, Haneda is more than just a place to stay. The strategic location on the historic runway site of Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) offers a unique vantage point as Japan's world-renowned gateway. This prime location transforms the hotel from a mere transit hub into a captivating destination, immersing guests in the airport's vibrant activities. The mission is to provide a place to stay and enhance your experience, inviting you to see the hotel as more than just a place to stay before or after a flight.
At Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo, Haneda is more than just a place to stay. The strategic location on the historic runway site of Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport) offers a unique vantage point as Japan's world-renowned gateway. This prime location transforms the hotel from a mere transit hub into a captivating destination, immersing guests in the airport's vibrant activities. The mission is to provide a place to stay and enhance your experience, inviting you to see the hotel as more than just a place to stay before or after a flight.
The floor plan is not just a layout; it's a captivating concept. Inspired by the idea of a 'perch,' it offers guests a unique space to pause their travels and enjoy a dynamic airport view. The restaurant and bar provide versatile seating arrangements for various occasions, while THE ROOF TOP offers a breathtaking 360-degree view day and night. These perch-like spaces are designed to provide a comfortable spot for guests to relax and enjoy their stay, all within a unique and inspiring environment.
The NIKKEN SPACE DESIGN LTD design team's design concept for the Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo, Haneda, is a unique blend of airport and bar elements. It is designed to appeal to both airport users and a wider audience. The design team has incorporated runway-themed corridors and aviation details throughout the hotel to emphasize its unique airport essence. Additionally, the artwork depicts the industrial vibe and history of the surrounding area, one of Japan's foremost factory districts, adding a unique touch to the overall design.
The design concept combines airport and bar elements to appeal to airport users and a wider audience. The design team from NIKKEN SPACE DESIGN LTD has incorporated runway-themed corridors and aviation details throughout the hotel to emphasize its unique airport essence. The artwork depicts the industrial vibe and history of the surrounding area, one of Japan's foremost factory districts.
The hotel features artworks inspired by genuine aircraft parts and route maps, with some pieces reimagined from locally manufactured industrial products. But that's not all. The hotel occasionally hosts aviation-related exhibitions in collaboration with Japan Airlines Co., Ltd. This unique partnership allows both parties to showcase the area's appeal and enhance guest experience with exclusive insights into the aviation world.
HOTEL METROPOLITAN TOKYO HANEDA is one of the Sky Design Awards Shortlisted Project*
For more information, please visit: https://nspacedesign.co.jp/
Photo Credit: Kenji MASUNAGA
Design Team | Designer Profile
A Vision for the Future - "Morinomachi Grace" in Okayama City designed by RENS, NOMURA Co.,Ltd
Designed by RENS, NOMURA Co.,Ltd from Japan. At the heart of this ambitious complex lies "Morinomachi Plaza," home to the "WONSETO FOODHALL." This vibrant culinary hub aims to invigorate regional development by celebrating local cuisine crafted from the unique ingredients native to Okayama and the Seto Inland Sea. Known for its mild climate and fertile soil, this area boasts a rich food culture that WONSETO FOODHALL proudly showcases. The food hall is a dining space and a cultural haven where visitors can immerse themselves in the region's gastronomic delights.
Located in the heart of Okayama City in Japan, "Morinomachi Grace" is a forward-thinking commercial facility that symbolizes innovation and community. It reflects the Seto Inland Sea region's rich heritage and natural beauty. It is poised to become a cornerstone of regional pride and a testament to sustainable urban development.
At the heart of this ambitious complex lies "Morinomachi Plaza," home to the "WONSETO FOODHALL." This vibrant culinary hub aims to invigorate regional development by celebrating local cuisine crafted from the unique ingredients native to Okayama and the Seto Inland Sea. Known for its mild climate and fertile soil, this area boasts a rich food culture that WONSETO FOODHALL proudly showcases. The food hall is a dining space and a cultural haven where visitors can immerse themselves in the region's gastronomic delights.
The design of this space, inspired by the Seto Inland Sea, is a unique and original creation. It seamlessly blends with the city's culture, offering a peaceful environment for the community to come together and enjoy the culinary delights of the Seto Inland Sea. This aims to promote a feeling of hope and connection through food, creating an intriguing and exciting experience for visitors.
The WONSETO FOODHALL is distinguished by its remarkable ceiling, designed to resemble the Seto Inland Sea's undulating waves, wind, and air currents. As natural light enters from the entrance, the expansive waves gradually transform into smaller ripples, leading visitors further into the space. This dynamic ceiling design represents the motion of waves and the passage of time and fosters a serene and unified atmosphere throughout the facility.
The architectural marvel includes a terraced "hill" that connects the first and second floors, resembling a natural topographical feature. This multipurpose space serves as bench seating and an event stage, providing a versatile area for relaxation and comfort. During events, it transforms into a lively stage and seating area, becoming a central hub for community activities celebrating Okayama's charms.
In a nod to local craftsmanship, "Okayama Denim," a specialty product from Ihara City, adorns the chairs and sofas. This choice highlights the region's textile industry and enhances the space with a distinctive regional touch, expanding the possibilities for local industries to thrive in new contexts.
The green zone, designed around a "diverse forest," contains approximately 1,000 trees and greenery, creating a landscape honouring Okayama's natural environment while incorporating new elements. The art lounge on the second floor, curated by Kohei Mawa, exhibits works by local artists and serves as a cultural hub. This space is envisioned to nurture Okayama's art and culture, encouraging new regional and artistic opportunities and linking them to the future.
"Morinomachi Grace" is more than a commercial facility; it represents a vision for the future. It embodies a harmonious blend of nature, culture, and community, creating a space where the past and future of Okayama coexist beautifully. This project is a proud testament to the city's commitment to sustainability, innovation, and cultural heritage, promising to be a cherished landmark for future generations.
"Morinomachi Grace" in Okayama City designed by RENS, NOMURA Co.,Ltd is one of the shortlisted projects from Sky Design Awards - Interior Design*
For more information, please visit:
Website: https://www.rens-design.jp/en/ or http://www.skydesignawards.com
Redefining Suzhou Elegance: COSCIA Pu Yuan Store designed by ADS（All Design Studio）
Amidst historic structures from the Republic of China era, the COSCIA Pu Yuan Store is a testament to the harmonious blend of old and new. The store occupies a square layout across two floors, and its primary structure is a modern reinforced concrete building. ADS has retained numerous original columns and beams, honouring the historical imprints of the original architecture. This design choice seamlessly integrates traditional elements and materials from Suzhou-style architecture with modern aesthetics.
Atrium
ADS has beautifully modernized Suzhou-style architecture's traditional spatial layouts and colour schemes, transforming them into a minimalist and contemporary design that reflects Eastern sensibilities. This design simplifies intricate details and creates a deep sense of nostalgia and connection, celebrating a lifestyle characterized by quality and sophistication.
In Pu Yuan Ancient Town, the essence of Jiangnan architecture is meticulously preserved. Every brick, tile, and wooden beam is crafted with mortise and tenon joints, showcasing the enduring skills of ancient artisans. The town's meandering streams, old-fashioned boats, and arched bridges intertwine to create a rich tapestry of cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Amidst historic structures from the Republic of China era, the COSCIA Pu Yuan Store is a testament to the harmonious blend of old and new. The store occupies a square layout across two floors, and its primary structure is a modern reinforced concrete building. ADS has retained numerous original columns and beams, honouring the historical imprints of the original architecture. This design choice seamlessly integrates traditional elements and materials from Suzhou-style architecture with modern aesthetics.
On the ground floor, the pathway is made of bricks and is flanked by two terracotta cabinet walls. This design adds visual depth and diversity to the atrium space. The atrium is covered with ink-black terrazzo, which gives the impression of an ink pool and a rain-dampened slate pathway. In the center of the atrium is a trapezoidal "Ink stick" structure. This structure is a display screen and an artistic centrepiece, drawing the eye upward. Additionally, a mirrored reflection resembling a sky lantern is suspended within the atrium, minimizing direct sunlight. This lightweight material contrasts with the geometric form of the "Ink stick."
Delicate metal chains encircling the atrium evoke the perpetual rainy ambiance of Jiangnan water towns, mimicking raindrops cascading from eaves and creating a curtain-like effect reminiscent of a water cascade. The cashier desk, fitting rooms, and jewelry section come to life on the ground floor. Inspired by mahjong tiles, the jewelry area's ceiling design features a vibrant interplay of orange and gray, squares and circles, infusing the space with a lively and playful ambiance.
The minimalist art journey continues to the second floor, unlike the grand "ink pool" below. Here, textured carpets and metallic panels create the sensation of walking on varied terrain, while a systematic arrangement of display cabinets encourages viewers to pause and explore. This thoughtful design builds anticipation for the unfolding journey ahead.
On the second floor, the VIP lounge and fitting rooms immerse individuals in a desert-themed atmosphere. Twilight imagery and decorative stones shape a unique "natural" landscape, offering modern consumers distinctive experiences and social media-worthy moments.
With this innovative design, ADS not only preserves the historical essence of Suzhou-style architecture but also elevates it by creating spaces that blend tradition and modernity. The result is an intriguing fusion that captivates the imagination and spirit of all who experience it.
*This project is one of the shortlisted project in the Sky Design Awards 2024 - Interior Design : Retail Design division
Project Information
Project丨COSCIA Pu Yuan Store
Location：No.233, Pu Chuan Street, Pu Yuan Town, Jia Xing ,Zhe Jiang Province ,CHINA
Project Type：Multi Buyer Store
Area：800㎡
Design Company：ADS（All Design Studio）
Designer：Tao Li, Jing Duan
Photo Credits：Yuuuun Studio
Complete Year：May, 2023
GIKEN GROUP Head Office Relocation Project in Gifu-shi designed by void.Co.,Ltd. from Japan
Designed by void.Co.,Ltd from Japan. The relocation project for GIKEN GROUP's head office near the Gifu Prefectural Office in Gifu-shi embodies a vision to create a multifaceted facility designed to nurture diverse communication and innovation. The building will not just house the head office, but also feature a co-working space, rental offices, and seminar rooms, catering to employees, government workers, businesses, and students. This strategic location is envisioned to be a vibrant hub for interaction, benefitting visitors to the prefectural office and fostering a culture of collaboration and creativity.
Designed by void.Co.,Ltd from Japan. The relocation project for GIKEN GROUP's head office near the Gifu Prefectural Office in Gifu-shi embodies a vision to create a multifaceted facility designed to nurture diverse communication and innovation. The building will not just house the head office, but also feature a co-working space, rental offices, and seminar rooms, catering to employees, government workers, businesses, and students. This strategic location is envisioned to be a vibrant hub for interaction, benefitting visitors to the prefectural office and fostering a culture of collaboration and creativity.
The project began with an analysis of the local characteristics. Notably, there was an increasing number of young entrepreneurs and a growing demand for remote working options. However, there needed to be more combined office and co-working spaces in Gifu. This facility aims to fill that gap by allowing young entrepreneurs to start their businesses in the co-working space and then transition to rental offices as they expand. It serves as a meeting point for ambitious individuals from government, academia, industry, and civil society, designed to support young entrepreneurs and stimulate innovation.
The building boasts a split-level floor plan, with a two-story section on the south side and a three-story section on the north side. The south side features a triple-height atrium lounge, a cafeteria with views of the entire building, and open-plan offices, creating a modern, light-filled environment. The three-story north section houses private rooms such as rental offices, conference rooms, and the president's office, offering a tranquil setting.
The first floor's co-working space, the second floor's rental offices, and the third floor's headquarters are all arranged to face the atrium, fostering an environment that encourages interaction and innovation. The building's total floor area is 1,682 square meters, with a height of 9.98 meters. It extends 17 meters on the short side and 46.5 meters on the long side, running east to west. The void space is 8.5 meters high, while the two-story south part features large open spaces with a ceiling height of 3.8 meters, creating a spacious feel without internal walls. In contrast, the smaller rooms in the three-story north part have ceiling heights of about 2.1 meters - scaled for comfort and functionality. The rental spaces on the second floor and the offices on the third floor have exposed ceilings, providing ample height and a sense of openness.
The building's exterior design reflects its split-level interior layout, with a diverse facade that combines two—and three-story sections. The first-floor atrium lounge and second-floor cafeteria have an open, airy design with vertical louvres and glazing, creating a strong connection to the street. The office and seminar rooms are embellished with extruded cement panels, combining a sense of dignity with the building's openness.
This relocation project meets the evolving needs of Gifu's business community and creates a dynamic environment for innovation and growth.
Website: https://void-jp.org/en/
Floor plan & Drawings
Steve Leung and Baccarat reveal the Printemps Bleu Zenith Chandelier, celebrating Sino-French friendship and timeless craftsmanship.
Renowned Hong Kong architect, interior, and product designer Steve Leung and his team at Steve Leung Design Group (SLD) have partnered with the prestigious French luxury house Baccarat to introduce the Printemps Bleu Zenith Chandelier. This collaboration, a significant milestone, celebrates the 60th anniversary of Sino-French friendship and Baccarat's 260th anniversary.
The chandelier showcases a graceful blend of Limoges porcelain painted with natural motifs and Baccarat crystals in clear and cobalt blue hues. It embodies Zenith's majestic form and cascading effect, featuring porcelain elements in its central column and lampshades— a first for Baccarat's lighting objects. This tasteful fusion reflects Steve's design philosophy, incorporating Chinese Yin-yang principles.
Renowned Hong Kong architect, interior, and product designer Steve Leung and his team at Steve Leung Design Group (SLD) have partnered with the prestigious French luxury house Baccarat to introduce the Printemps Bleu Zenith Chandelier. This collaboration marks a milestone celebrating the 60th anniversary of Sino-French friendship and Baccarat's 260th anniversary. The Printemps Bleu, meaning 'Blue Spring' in English, evokes the rejuvenation and renewal of nature during springtime. Drawing inspiration from Qinghua Ci, one of China's most cherished artifacts, and Baccarat's iconic Zenith chandelier, this exquisite piece harmonizes Asian sensibilities with French elegance. The chandelier's design symbolizes the Chinese philosophy of Yin-Yang, reflecting the harmonious integration of Eastern and Western artistry. This masterpiece is destined to captivate discerning collectors and connoisseurs of luxury décor.
Steve Leung, a renowned Hong Kong architect, interior, and product designer, spearheads the design team at Steve Leung Design Group (SLD) in an extraordinary collaboration with the prestigious French luxury House Baccarat to unveil the remarkable Printemps Bleu Zenith Chandelier, honouring the 60th anniversary of Sino-French friendship and commemorating Baccarat's 260th anniversary.
"Our collaboration celebrates Baccarat's 260th Anniversary in 2024," says Steve Leung. "Since its establishment in 1764, Baccarat has been synonymous with exceptional quality, craftsmanship, and timeless design. Today, it remains a pristine symbol of luxury and elegance. It is our honour to delve into its esteemed history and legacy of luxury. Both our countries have a long-standing appreciation for art and literature. This collaboration is the perfect way to celebrate our countries' mutual understanding and appreciation of each other's heritage and creativity, especially on the 60th anniversary of Sino-French friendship. I am thrilled to embark on a design journey with the talented team at Baccarat during such a milestone historical moment."
The Printemps Bleu Zenith Chandelier is a captivating fusion of Eastern and Western design aesthetics. The chandelier features Limoges porcelain intricately entwined with Baccarat's renowned crystals in clear and cobalt blue hues. This design embodies Zenith's majestic form, incorporating porcelain elements such as the cupel, baluster, and bowl in its central column and lampshades—Baccarat's first exploration of porcelain in their lighting objects. The chandelier achieves a delicate balance of contrasting elements: crystal and porcelain, transparency and opacity, blue and white, East and West. This sophisticated blend celebrates the duality and harmony of Sino-French friendship, paying tribute to the exceptional quality and craftsmanship of both Baccarat and Chinese porcelain.
The Printemps Bleu chandelier exudes the essence of spring, capturing nature's vibrant revival. Inspired by Chinese motifs dating back to 1878, it integrates delicate porcelain elements adorned with intricate cobalt blue designs. The carefully crafted lampshades allow the natural motifs to dance and illuminate the surroundings, creating a captivating radiance. This chandelier symbolizes the harmonious fusion of Eastern and Western design, celebrating the enduring cultural encounter between China and France.
The Printemps Bleu Zenith Chandelier will be launched in Asia in July 2024, followed by a global release in 2025. Limited to only 60 pieces, this chandelier commemorates the 60th anniversary of Sino-French friendship. It has been reinterpreted by renowned designers such as Philippe Starck, Marcel Wanders, Arik Levy, Louise Campbell, and Jaime Hayon, solidifying its status as a symbol of timeless artistry and cross-cultural collaboration.
Product Details
Product Name: Printemps Bleu
Product Category: Lighting
Product Completion: July 2024
About Steve Leung, BBS, Founder of Steve Leung Design Group Ltd.
Born in Hong Kong, Steve Leung is an internationally renowned architect, interior and product designer with over 40 years of design experience. Taking inspirations from Asian culture and arts, his works are famous for their unique contemporary style. He has gained a high reputation in the industry and his works have received high acclaim worldwide.
“Design” represents different meanings for every master in history. These thoughts have influenced their creation and achievements, and reflect their understanding of contemporary culture and lifestyles. Steve has his own unique thoughts and philosophy on design. Since his business start-up in 1987, Steve has broken through the traditional framework and geographical boundaries with brand-new thinking and forward-looking international vision, and taken his pace to the diversified development rooted in China with a global perspective, shepherding SLD into a world-leading interior design company.
Having achieved significant success during his design career spanning over 40 years, and believing that as a part of the society, it is necessary to shoulder certain social responsibilities, Steve has been actively participating in design-related public roles in recent years. He hopes to use his profession, experience and network to give back to the industry and society, as well as pay efforts to cultivate young designers. He has been invited on various occasions to be the judge of the world's authoritative design awards, including Asia Pacific Interior Design Awards, iF Design Award China, Red Dot Design Award, China Property Awards, iF Communication Design Award, etc. He was the President of the International Federation of Interior Architects / Designers (IFI) from 2017 to 2020, being the first Chinese President in IFI history. Steve has been the Executive Director of Design Committee of China National Interior Decoration Association (CIDA) since 2013 to present, and the Board of Directors of Hong Kong Design Centre since 2016, Vice Chairman since 2022. In 2014, Steve joined hands with interior designers from the Mainland, Hong Kong and Taiwan to establish “C Foundation” to foster development of the design industry and education in China. In 2022, Steve has been awarded Bronze Bauhinia Star (BBS) by the Government of HKSAR in recognition of his notable contributions to educating young architects and designers, and fostering sustainable development in both Hong Kong and the Mainland.
About Steve Leung Design Group Ltd.
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Steve Leung, the Group officially entered the Mainland market in 2000, and listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in 2018 (SEHK: 2262), being Hong Kong’s first listed company providing pure design services. “Design Without Limits” is the core value of the Group and we believe that design has the power to break boundaries. Since his business start-up in 1987, Steve and his teams have held firm to the belief that design should be people-oriented. Through collaboration and interaction among different fields, we constantly explore and think over the significance and mission of design, striving to create more possibilities by design without limits. Our mission and vision are to bring the power of design into full play through execution of projects:
- To enhance project value with design
- To improve quality of life with design
- To drive social development with design
- To create better future with design
With diversification, specialization and internationalization being the direction of business development, the Group provides high quality design services of different categories which embrace show flats, sales offices, club houses, luxury residential projects, serviced apartments, hotels and restaurants, commercial and office spaces, homes for the aged, medical and healthcare, etc. The Group's business scope also extends from interior design and furnishing services to product design. We have collaborated with a number of international brands in home décor for a wide range of product designs, including furniture, decorative lightings, sanitary wares, kitchen cabinets, door handles, tiles, etc.
About Baccarat
Founded in 1764, Baccarat, alchemist of joy and creator of enchanting worlds, is the fruit of a group of daring artisans who have transformed the four elements of nature – earth, air, fire and water – into crystal of unparalleled purity. By crafting true masterpieces, Baccarat has never ceased to surprise the world, garnering numerous awards at World Fairs and international exhibitions. This is how the name of a small town in eastern France, Baccarat, has over time become a symbol of the art of celebration and French joie de vivre. From Paris to Moscow, New York, Tokyo, Miami or Hong Kong, the unique experience of Baccarat’s art de vivre can be found within its Houses, boutiques, restaurants, bars and hotels. Ahead of its 260th anniversary, Baccarat continues its international development, firmly anchored in its roots, and driven by the ambition to always fly higher. Discover the captivating world of Baccarat on www.baccarat.com and on www.instagram.com/baccarat