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

Immersive Landscapes: ARC'TERYX Taikoo Li Chengdu Store Crafts a Design Journey Through Sichuan’s Natural and Cultural Essence

Located in the heart of Taikoo Li Chengdu, the ARC'TERYX store stands out with its expansive 958 square meters, a space that seamlessly incorporates the vibrant culture and unique geography of Sichuan. The design team has crafted a spatial narrative that unfolds in three distinct 'chapters' across five exploration scenes, drawing inspiration from the region's natural beauty and the adventurous spirit of outdoor pursuits. This architectural storytelling provides a captivating backdrop to the complete ARC'TERYX collection, where every detail has been meticulously curated to transform the two-story space into a dynamic, immersive landscape.

The store front proudly displays the iconic skeleton logo, recreated in antique green bronze specifically for the Taikoo Li Chengdu location. This emblem, inspired by the fossilized remains of Archaeopteryx, the first feathered reptile, symbolizes the brand's deep-rooted connection to exploration and innovation, a theme that resonates throughout the store.

The store's design elements work in harmony to transport visitors to a world reminiscent of ancient caves where the fossils were first discovered. The double-height space, spanning 50 square meters, features a carved opening at the top that allows light to filter in, mimicking the soft glow of daylight. Dark, copper-hued metal leaves dangle from the ceiling, enhancing the cavernous ambiance. Custom stone walls envelop the space, reinforcing the store's rugged, outdoor spirit and creating a truly immersive experience for visitors.

The first-floor interior features warm-coloured rock surfaces, which pay tribute to the brand's mountain heritage and Sichuan's enigmatic Sanxingdui culture. The space offers a modern outdoor command center ambiance, blending elements of the past and present, as well as nature and modernity.

As you ascend to the second floor, you'll encounter various thoughtfully designed spaces, including a product display area, a coffee corner, a VIP room, and three terraces. These areas are seamlessly integrated, creating an immersive journey through different materials and picturesque views, evoking a strong sense of discovery and excitement.

In the VIP area, adjacent to the Veilance Series display, bamboo-patterned decorative columns and a gently undulating roof recall Chengdu's lush bamboo forests, providing a harmonious transition from Vancouver's temperate rainforests to the local landscape. Brushed stainless steel and bamboo elements create an elegant yet grounded atmosphere that speaks to the brand's global and regional roots.

The spatial journey begins with the "first impression area," a dramatic entrance and full-height space setting the narrative's tone. The second chapter, the "World Expedition," guides customers through various product collections, each presented in distinct scenes such as "Rock Climbing," "Rainforest Wandering," and "Back to City." On the second floor, the "Cave Exploring" area, complete with a coffee corner and terraces, offers a moment of respite in this immersive adventure.

Fitting rooms, often overlooked in retail design, are pivotal in this environment. The four fitting rooms across both levels incorporate stretch ceilings, LED screens, mirrors, and a blend of audio-visual effects, ensuring that each customer's experience is as immersive and engaging as the store's grand narrative. Here, the art of trying on gear becomes an exploration in itself, mirroring the spirit of ARC'TERYX and keeping you engaged and entertained.

TARC'TERYXERYXTaikoo Li Chengdu store blends innovation with brand'sl reverence by weaving Sichuan's natural elements and rich heritage into an immersive retail space. Every detail invites customers to engage with the brand in a way that transcends traditional shopping.

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Project name: ARC'TERYX Store, Taikoo Li Chengdu

Company name: ARC'TERYX ISE & VVYY Group & STILL YOUNG

Project location: F2 Taikoo Li, Chengdu, Jinjiang District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China

Photographer/copyright: WEN STUDIO

For more information, please visit: https://www.stillyoung.cn

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

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