AMADA GLOBAL INNOVATION CENTER: A Fusion of Heritage, Innovation, and Sustainable Design

The AMADA GLOBAL INNOVATION CENTER, designed by Yuzo Kosaka of NOMURA Co., Ltd., is a bold testament to AMADA's unwavering dedication to innovation and craftsmanship. As a global leader in metal processing technology and equipment, AMADA has purposefully crafted a space to showcase its products, embodying the company's resolute spirit of "building bonds with customers and manufacturing that contributes to society." This center is not simply a facility but a resounding declaration of AMADA's legacy and unwavering vision for the future.

The AMADA GLOBAL INNOVATION CENTER is more than just an exhibition hall. It's a place where the essence of metalworking comes to life, offering visitors a unique and exciting experience. Here, they can tangibly experience the 'spirit of manufacturing' and understand the profound impact of metal processing technology on the world. Every design aspect, from the architecture to the interior, fixtures, and signage, has been meticulously crafted to integrate metal processing technology as a core design element. This approach has resulted in a center that offers a truly unique experience, where technology and design converge in a seamless narrative.

The center is not only about displaying products; it's about conveying a more profound message — the value of metal processing technology in shaping our world. By incorporating these technologies into the building, the AMADA GLOBAL INNOVATION CENTER becomes an immersive environment where visitors can explore the endless possibilities of the future. This innovative approach reflects AMADA's commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible while staying true to the principles guiding the company for generations.

The center's design strongly emphasizes sustainability and environmental stewardship. In today's era of environmental conservation, AMADA has taken significant strides to ensure that its innovation center is state-of-the-art and eco-friendly. Through a collaborative effort between architecture, interior design, and exhibition direction teams, the facility has been transformed into a model of environmental sustainability. The center introduces energy-saving products and cutting-edge software that monitor the environmental impact of the entire factory, setting a new standard for eco-friendly industrial design. This commitment to sustainability reassures visitors and industry professionals of AMADA's dedication to a greener future.

The facility's construction and interior design showcase the latest environmentally conscious building practices and advancements. Compared to the previous structure and similar conventional facilities, the center has achieved a 50% reduction in CO2 emissions, demonstrating AMADA's commitment to reducing its environmental footprint. Visitors to the center will have the opportunity to experience these eco-friendly innovations firsthand, as the facility serves as a real-world example of AMADA's dedication to sustainable manufacturing.

AMADA's environmental initiatives extend beyond energy efficiency. The facility utilizes an AI recognition system to optimize lighting and air conditioning, integrates solar power generation, and incorporates a balanced use of recycled materials. These efforts are geared towards meeting regulatory requirements, leading the industry in sustainable practices, and providing solutions to operational and environmental challenges.

The AMADA GLOBAL INNOVATION CENTER is a shining example of what the future of manufacturing should be. It's a place where tradition meets innovation, where the legacy of AMADA's past is honoured while boldly stepping into the future. For visitors, this center offers a rare opportunity to witness, experience, and understand the transformative power of metal processing technology in a space that is as forward-thinking as the innovations it houses. Here, the future of manufacturing is not just imagined—it is realized, inspiring hope and excitement for what is to come.

Designer Profile

For more information, please visit: https://www.nomurakougei.co.jp/

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

LuxLinea: A Beacon of Light and Design Innovation in Shibuya's Urban Tapestry

In the ever-evolving urban landscape of Shibuya, Tokyo, the LuxLinea ophthalmology clinic stands out as a visionary addition to the city's architectural tapestry. Designed by KTX archiLAB, this new clinic, part of the esteemed Total Eye Care network, offers a space that harmonizes clinical precision with a sophisticated urban sensibility. The design of LuxLinea is not just functional; it is a masterpiece in how architecture can shape and enhance the patient experience while engaging with the surrounding environment. Its unique design features are sure to pique your interest and leave you curious to explore more.

LuxLinea is located on the ground floor of a mixed-use building with dual glass facades that directly connect to Shibuya's lively energy. However, due to the building's transparency, maintaining patient privacy and managing daylight reflections posed a significant challenge. KTX archiLAB addressed this challenge with an ingenious solution. The architects used light as a dynamic medium, transforming the clinic into a living entity interacting with its environment in real time. Their innovative solutions are sure to impress and inspire you.

During the day, LuxLinea's glass walls are illuminated by vertical lines of light, creating a sense of curiosity and welcome for passersby. This interplay of light reduces glare and turns the clinic into a radiant landmark in the urban landscape. The design aims to engage the public and invite them into a space that is not just a part of the city but a sanctuary for those seeking care. LuxLinea is a testament to the clinic's role in the urban landscape, creating a sense of belonging and connection for all who visit.

The entrance and reception counter are strategically placed at the more minor corner of the trapezoid, where the two glazed sides converge. This placement maximizes natural light and creates a welcoming entry point that feels open and accessible. The waiting area, aligned along the glass facade, extends this feeling of openness. Patients are seated along the perimeter, separated by transparent acrylic panels. These panels, illuminated in the same vertical light pattern that characterizes the exterior, provide an excellent solution to the dual concerns of privacy and health. They shield patients from the outside world and act as barriers against airborne contaminants, a critical consideration in today's healthcare environments.

You'll notice subtle design changes as you go into the clinic. The examination and treatment rooms, which are light-sensitive, are set back from the front entrance and can be accessed through gates bordered by illuminated panels. These rooms provide a quiet and focused environment for care, insulated from outside activity. The waiting area uses mirrored ceilings and walls, which serve a dual purpose. During the day, the mirrors reflect the city's surroundings, blending the outside with the clinic. They become reflective surfaces at night, enhancing the interior light and creating a mesmerizing, kaleidoscopic effect. The overall result is a spacious, unique atmosphere where light and reflection constantly alter the environment.

LuxLinea is not just an ophthalmology clinic; it represents a new approach to healthcare spaces in the 21st century. KTX archiLAB has designed a space where design and function are closely linked, with every element serving a purpose, from the lighting patterns to the placement of mirrors. The clinic challenges traditional clinical design and showcases how architecture can enhance the patient experience. It aims to create a vibrant and engaging space that contributes to the city while providing a comfortable environment for patients. In a city known for its bold architecture, LuxLinea stands out as a symbol of considerate, patient-centred design that integrates well with the urban surroundings of Tokyo.

Designer Profile

KTX archiLAB is an architectural and interior design office based in Japan. Specialized in commercial and medical design, its portfolio includes a wide range of projects: Hospitality, retail, showrooms, offices, hospitals, clinics, and more. KTX archiLAB has received more than a hundred and sixty local and international awards for its projects conducted both in Japan and abroad.

For more information, please visit: http://ktx.space/

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

Lighting the Ritz-Carlton Reserve: A Sanctuary of Culture and Nature

Step into a world where lighting design transcends the ordinary and embodies the essence of exquisite artistry. Join us on a journey into a project by Grand Sight Design International Limited, where tradition, culture, and the awe-inspiring beauty of nature harmoniously unite in a breathtaking display of creativity and innovation. This feature highlights the lighting design for the Ritz-Carlton Hidden World Resort. This project enhances the brand's "high-fashion" aesthetic and redefines the idea of immersive, culturally rich retreats. We take a closer look at a project that represents the pinnacle of lighting design—an effort by Grand Sight Design International Limited that seamlessly integrates tradition, culture, and the breathtaking beauty of nature. This article showcases the lighting design for the Ritz-Carlton Hidden World Resort. This project elevates the brand's sophisticated aesthetic and reimagines the concept of immersive, culturally rich getaways.

The Ritz-Carlton Reserve, a collection of secluded hotels and resorts under The Ritz-Carlton umbrella, is renowned for its ability to transport guests to places where they can both escape and connect deeply with the world around them. The Hidden World Resort, nestled within the awe-inspiring Zhongcha Valley—known as 'the place where the eagle landed'—is a sanctuary in every sense at a breathtaking altitude of 2,300 meters. Here, in this tranquil valley, the thousand-year-old Tibetan village of Rissai welcomes travellers to experience its rich heritage, making it a unique and culturally rich retreat.

The essence of this project lies in its lighting design, which transcends mere illumination to become a vessel for a profound and unique guest experience. The design team at Grand Sight Design International Limited approached the project with a deep reverence for the land's silent energy, aiming to unlock a new dimension of thought and perception for all who enter. With its restrained use of minimal brightness, the exterior lighting crafts a subtle yet impactful atmosphere that allows the night sky's natural brilliance to take center stage, enhancing the overall guest experience.

Inside, the design honours the cultural legacy of the Tibetan and Qiang minorities, integrating materials that preserve the purity and vibrancy of traditional art. This deliberate choice presented a unique challenge, as the lighting had to enhance, rather than overpower, the space's inherent vitality. The result is an interior lighting scheme that treats the space as a living, breathing entity. It guides the emotional journey of the guests with a subtle, slow modulation of light, wrapping them in a cocoon of serenity that gently peels away the outside world's distractions. The interplay of light and shadow reveals the intricate details of the interior, inviting discovery at every turn.

At the heart of this project is an adherence to the principles of Oriental aesthetics, where introspection and harmony are essential. The lighting design creates a delicate balance between the built environment and the natural world, ensuring that the architecture and landscape exist in symbiosis. In this way, the Ritz-Carlton Hidden World Resort does more than provide a luxurious retreat—it offers a profound connection to the land, culture, and spirit of the Tibetan highlands.

We invite you to explore the nuances of this project and witness how lighting design can elevate a space from the ordinary to the extraordinary. We encourage those seeking further insights or a deeper exploration of the project's intricacies to reach out. Grand Sight Design International Limited stands ready to share more about this exemplary achievement in lighting design.

For more information, please visit: www.gd-lightingdesign.com

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

Redefining Environmental Engineering: The Visionary Space of TAIKISHA INNOVATION GATE Shinjuku

In today's rapidly evolving world, where technology and sustainability drive innovation, Taikisha Ltd. is a leading force in environmental engineering. Their recent project, the TAIKISHA INNOVATION GATE Shinjuku, stands as a unique testament to their dedication to creating a sustainable future. Designed by the renowned NOMURA Co., Ltd., this B2B showroom breaks the mould of traditional design concepts, offering an immersive experience that seamlessly integrates art, technology, and environmental consciousness.

The design of the TAIKISHA INNOVATION GATE Shinjuku is a testament to the innovative spirit of Taikisha Ltd. and NOMURA Co., Ltd. It is closely connected to the central theme of the Air Duct, an essential component in the air conditioning industry and a symbol of Taikisha's core business. NOMURA Co., Ltd., under the creative leadership of Keisuke Yoshida and Ryo Onishi, has skillfully translated this industrial element into an architectural marvel. The wireframe-like structure, characterized by continuously connected joints and curved edge fillets, forms a robust, three-dimensional space that embodies the essence of air ducts. With their sleek and modern aesthetic, the tube-like interiors represent Taikisha's technical expertise visually and create a dynamic and immersive environment that engages visitors as soon as they step inside.

An Immersive Journey Through History, Technology, and the Future

The TAIKISHA INNOVATION GATE Shinjuku offers more than just a striking physical design. The showroom provides a multi-sensory experience with interactive media such as high-definition video displays, augmented reality (AR) installations, and immersive spaces. These elements collectively tell the story of Taikisha Ltd., inviting visitors to explore the company's history, cutting-edge technologies, and vision for the future. The narrative highlights Taikisha's commitment to innovation, sustainability, and creating new value in the environmental engineering sector, engaging visitors in a unique and immersive way.

NOMURA Co., Ltd., a leader in spatial design, has once again demonstrated its ability to push the boundaries of commercial and office interior design with the TAIKISHA INNOVATION GATE Shinjuku. The project is a shining example of how design can transcend functional requirements to create spaces that are not only practical but also profoundly impactful. By integrating experiential media with innovative design elements, NOMURA has created a showroom that is as much about engaging the senses as it is about showcasing technological prowess.

A Gateway to Innovation and Collaboration

The TAIKISHA INNOVATION GATE Shinjuku is more than just a showroom; it is a gateway to innovation and collaboration. It creates a space where visitors can engage with Taikisha's technologies and explore their potential applications, fostering a deeper understanding of the company's contributions to environmental engineering. The showroom also serves as a hub for collaboration, where ideas can be exchanged, and new solutions can be developed in response to the industry's complex challenges today. It's a space where everyone is invited to be part of the conversation and the solution.

The TAIKISHA INNOVATION GATE Shinjuku powerfully represents Taikisha Ltd.'s vision and NOMURA Co., Ltd.'s design expertise. Together, they have created a space that showcases the future of environmental engineering and inspires and engages all who enter its doors. This project clearly demonstrates how design, guided by a clear vision and executed with precision, can create spaces that are not only functional but also transformative.

Designer Profile

For more information, please visit: https://www.nomurakougei.co.jp/

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

Heritage Link Parking Pavilio - The Chudong Parking Structure designed by Q-LAB

A new architectural landmark has quietly emerged in the heart of a small suburban town in Taiwan. With a population of barely one hundred thousand and predominantly composed of the Hakka community, the Chudong Parking Structure, designed by the innovative team at Q-LAB, is more than just a utilitarian facility. It is a thoughtful response to the unique socio-economic fabric of this town, where tourism and agriculture are the lifeblood of the local economy.

For years, the central market has been dealing with chaotic traffic and a shortage of parking spaces, which has caused residents inconvenience. To address this issue, local authorities decided to build a parking structure to reduce congestion and promote the town's growth. The Chudong Parking Structure is not just a solution to a practical problem but a beacon of hope for the town's future, adding to its cultural and aesthetic appeal.

The Chudong Parking Structure, designed by Q-LAB, tackles the surrounding chaos with a simple and striking approach in geometry and form. The structure's plan consists of two semicircles at each end, supported by shear walls to absorb seismic forces, which is crucial in this region. A straightforward post-and-beam structure offers a flexible and efficient solution to parking needs between these semicircles.

What sets this building apart is its ability to balance functional engineering with cultural sensitivity. The lightness of its tectonics is complemented by the rich cultural symbolism embedded in its design. The louvres that wrap the exterior of the structure are more than just an architectural feature; they are a visual homage to the traditional Hakka umbrellas, infusing the building with a sense of place and identity. This connection to the local culture makes the Chudong Parking Structure more than just a building; it's a part of the community.

The Chudong Parking Structure is more than an infrastructural addition to the town; it is an architectural statement that seamlessly blends with the existing urban fabric. Its simplicity in design and elegance in execution create a structure that, while minimal in its intervention, enriches the lifestyle of the community it serves. Through this project, Q-LAB has provided a solution to the town's parking woes and crafted a new symbol of its heritage and progress.

For more information, please visit: https://www.qlabarchitects.com/

*This project is one of the shortlisted project in the Sky Design Awards 2024 - Architecture Division

A Modern Testament to Shizuoka’s Craftsmanship by Takasu Gaku Design and Associates

In the heart of Shizuoka Prefecture, a region known for its traditional wooden craftsmanship, the 'Di+Re' collection offers a bold and innovative take on tradition. Shizuoka is famous for producing fine wooden items like pepper mills and tableware. Now, young craftsmen and interior designers, under the visionary leadership of Takasu Gaku Design and Associates, come together to push the boundaries of their craft in this fertile creative ground.

Di+Re products are based on the theme of "Disassembly and Reconstruction." They explore the combination of form and function through traditional woodworking techniques that are deconstructed and reassembled into modern designs. This process is symbolic; it involves meticulously crafting each piece by hand, intentionally incorporating deviations such as tilts, rotations, and inversions into the assembly. The result is a series of products that elegantly merge geometric precision with the warmth of handcrafted wooden forms, embodying the fusion of modern and traditional aesthetics.

The essence of Di+Re is its versatility and adaptability. The collection's signature piece is a wooden grinder designed to transcend its original purpose. Instead of being limited to a single function, this grinder is envisioned as an iconic object that seamlessly integrates into various settings – a stool, a side table, or a display stand. This multifunctional design philosophy empowers users to interpret and use the product to suit their style and needs, inspiring creativity and personalization.

One of the standout pieces in the Di+Re collection is the Nu Stool. It is a masterful creation made from a cylindrical shape turned on a lathe. Two identical triangles are carved from this cylinder and reconnected in an inverted position, creating a stool that challenges traditional design norms. Its bold shape, with minimal connection points on its curved surfaces, makes it a striking addition to any space. It can be used as a functional seat, a side table, or an objet d'art.

The Quad Stool is equally compelling, crafted through division and inversion. First, a cylinder is turned on a lathe and then split into four vertical sections, each carefully inverted and reassembled. Despite its seemingly straightforward appearance, the stool's proportions are defined by intricate calculations, with every cut, angle, and line the product of meticulous planning and expert craftsmanship. This piece showcases the designer's attention to detail and offers a glimpse into the future of woodworking as traditional techniques are repurposed to create something entirely new.

The collection's innovation continues with Otto, a piece whose name—meaning "8" in Italian—hints at its design inspiration. At first glance, Otto appears as a simple cylindrical form, but upon closer inspection, lines inclined at an 8-degree angle are revealed, rhythmically suspended within the wood. These subtle inclinations transform the piece depending on the viewer's perspective, altering its silhouette and the expression of its wood grain. Otto serves as a refined yet distinctive accent in any space, showcasing the power of subtle design.

Created by Takasu Gaku Design and Associates, Di+Re products are more than functional items. They represent a conversation between the past and present, tradition and innovation. They encourage users to discover the potential of form and function, appreciate the craftsmanship behind each piece, and enjoy the beauty of versatile and timeless objects.

For more information, please visit: https://gaku-design.com

*This project is one of the shortlisted project in the Sky Design Awards 2024 - Product design