LI City Library: A Reimagined Urban Cultural Hub in Tianmu Lake Resort

Liyang City's LI City Library, located in the Tianmu Lake Resort, showcases the transformative power of thoughtful design. Originally designed as an office building, the structure underwent a significant transformation, driven by the local government's vision to integrate dynamic social functions into the urban landscape. Today, the library not only provides a 24-hour accessible space for citizens and tourists to engage with literature but also functions as a shared cultural hub that enriches the community. The renovation, skillfully carried out by Greater Dog Architects, redefines the building's purpose, striking a perfect balance between modern functionality and cultural significance, and preserving its architectural integrity in a way that resonates with the community.

Architectural Reuse: Embracing and Evolving the Existing Framework

The building, which has three above-ground floors and one underground level, features a durable frame structure effectively repurposed to meet modern needs. More excellent Dog Architects utilized a strategy focused on reusing the building while redefining its spatial design. This approach not only preserved the building's historical significance but also reduced the project's environmental impact by minimizing the need for new construction materials. Removing the exterior walls and exposing the original beams and columns established a conversation between the old and the new. The addition of setback circular structural beams along the main facade transforms the building's exterior and reshapes the interior floor slabs, creating a seamless combination of preservation and innovation. This approach extends to the semi-outdoor entrance, set back from the main structure, where a deliberately extended circular traffic flow provides a peaceful buffer from the busy street outside.

Sustainability: Infusing the Building with Natural Light and Texture

The renovation focuses on bringing in natural light to open up the previously enclosed spaces. The frameless inner curved glass complements the strong frame structure, gracefully accentuating the building's architectural lines. The use of gray wooden tiles, meticulously re-dyed and pressed from recycled wood, gives the library a natural, tactile quality that harmonizes with its surroundings. A spiral staircase within a cylindrical space connects the main areas on each floor, optimizing the light flow and creating multiple links between the interior and the external environment.

Renewal: Enhancing Functionality for a New Era

The renovation of the LI City Library was not just about improving its appearance, but also about ensuring its readiness for a new era. The HVAC system from the early 1990s was upgraded to meet modern standards, and changes were made to the fire escape routes, lighting systems, and seismic capacity. The building's structure was reinforced to ensure its readiness for its new purpose. As a result, the renovated LI City Library, designed by Greater Dog Architects, is a modern and visually appealing structure that fits well with its urban surroundings and the natural beauty of the Tianmu Lake area. It now serves as a vibrant public space, meeting the community's needs for cultural engagement while preserving its historical significance. The renovation has given the library a fresh, dynamic identity that will ensure its relevance and vitality for years.

Project Information
Client: Jiangsu Tianmu Lake Holding Group Co., Ltd. Architecture and Interior Design: Greater Dog Architects Collaborator: Shanghai Urban Architectural Design Co., Ltd. Principal Architects: Jin XIN, Zhihong HU
Design Team: Manyan He, Keith Guo, Longlin Gong, Huge Shen, Alex Wu, Ella Tang, Vincent Wang
Structural Design: Shanghai Yijing Architectural Design Co., Ltd. Project Photography: Metaviz Studio
Project Address: No.375, Yingbin Avenue, Tianmu Lake Town, Liyang City, Jiangsu Prov- ince
Building Area: 2387 m2
Year Began: 2021
Completion: June, 2023

For more information, please visit: www.greater-dog.com

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

Illuminating Preparedness: AKIRA NAKAGOMI DESIGN's Honey Drop Merges Aesthetics with Emergency Readiness

The boundaries between form, function, and storytelling often become blurry in design. AKIRA NAKAGOMI DESIGN has embarked on an inspiring journey with its latest creation, Honey Drop. This unique lighting fixture, with its innovative use of honey and dual functionality, is not just a product; it's a testament to the power of thoughtful design in redefining how we interact with the objects in our lives. This is especially important in a world that increasingly requires beauty and practicality.

Japan, with its unique topography and seismic activity, is a country that has long lived in the shadow of natural disasters. Earthquakes, tsunamis, and typhoons are part of the national consciousness, prompting a society-wide focus on preparedness. However, the tools and supplies meant to protect and sustain us in times of crisis often lie dormant, hidden away in cupboards and closets, only to be remembered in moments of urgency. Honey Drop emerges from this context as a beacon of innovative thinking, challenging the traditional view that disaster preparedness must exist in isolation from our daily lives.

The essence of Honey Drop lies in its masterful use of honey—a substance as ancient as it is revered. Honey has been a symbol of nourishment and healing for millennia, prized by civilizations across the globe for its medicinal properties and its almost miraculous ability to endure through the ages. In Honey Drop, this golden elixir is elevated to an art form, encased in a glass vessel that captures the fluid grace of a droplet suspended in time. The vessel itself is not just a container but a metaphor—a reminder of the preciousness of life, the importance of readiness, and the beauty that can be found in the simplest of natural forms.

This glass droplet is placed on a finely crafted wooden base, designed to embody the Japanese principles of wabi-sabi. This aesthetic celebrates the beauty of natural imperfections and the passage of time. The warm and tactile wood creates a harmonious contrast with the sleek glass, reflecting the essence of Japanese design. While the design exudes traditional craftsmanship, the base integrates modern innovation by housing a rechargeable LED light.

Honey Drop serves more than just a lighting fixture; it provides an experience. When illuminated, the honey inside radiates a soft, amber glow, casting a warm, inviting light that transforms any space into a calm sanctuary. This gentle illumination is visually pleasing and serves as a subtle connection to nature, reminding us of the earth's enduring gifts and the simple pleasures that sustain us.

But "Honey Drop" is not just a passive participant in your life. In moments of crisis, its true potential is revealed. The honey, which initially served as a source of aesthetic pleasure, now becomes a lifeline. Its nutritional richness offers sustenance in an emergency, while its antibacterial properties provide a natural remedy. Once a vessel for light, the wooden base transforms into a practical tool—a flashlight that guides you through darkness and serves as a beacon of hope in uncertain times. Adding an SOS signal function further enhances its utility, ensuring that this elegant object can also serve as a vital means of communication when conventional systems fail.

The brilliance of Honey Drop lies not just in its dual functionality but in its philosophy. It challenges us to reconsider how we approach the concept of preparedness. Why should the tools we rely on in our most vulnerable moments be hidden away, out of sight, and out of mind? Honey Drop argues for a new approach—one where preparedness is woven into the fabric of our daily existence, where the objects surrounding us are beautiful and purposeful, ready to serve when the need arises. Its beauty and practicality are sure to impress and inspire appreciation.

The philosophy is based on the Japanese concept of "ki," which values simplicity, spontaneity, and the seamless integration of beauty and practicality. "Honey Drop" embodies "iki"—an unpretentious yet profound design, simple yet powerful. It reflects the current trend in design, where the lines between art, utility, and sustainability are becoming increasingly blurred. The objects we surround ourselves with now tell a story as much as they serve a function.

The Honey Drop exhibition prompts us to contemplate the impact of design in our daily lives. It urges us to look beyond surface-level aesthetics and recognize the deeper connections between the objects we interact with regularly and the broader narratives of survival, resilience, and beauty. It serves as a reminder that in a world where unexpected events can occur at any time, there is immense value in being prepared – not only in a practical sense but also in a way that enhances our lives and uplifts our surroundings.

Remember this text: "Honey Drop is not just a product; it symbolizes a new design thinking. It prioritizes the human experience, understands the importance of preparedness, and recognizes the power of beauty to inspire, comfort, and sustain us in challenging times. AKIRA NAKAGOMI DESIGN has crafted a lighting fixture that serves as a luminous reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of thoughtful design. This enduring power of design is sure to reassure and instill confidence in its users.

For more information, please visit: https://akiranakagomi.com/

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

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https://akiranakagomi.com/

Designer Profile

Akira Nakagomi

Akira Nakagomi is a Japanese designer who established AKIRA NAKAGOMI DESIGN in 2015.  

1977    Born in Tokyo Japan

2002　　Completed  the Master Course of Civil and Architectural Engineering, Hosei University

2002-2014  Worked at  TYD

2015-  Established  AKIRA NAKAGOMI DESIGN

Torre Arcobaleno: Milan's Beacon of Modern Design Illuminated Anew

In the vibrant Garibaldi area of Milan, the iconic Torre Arcobaleno stands resplendent, its presence even more compelling with the installation of a new night lighting system. This latest intervention, a collaboration between some of Italy's most esteemed companies, elevates the tower's status as a symbol of contemporary Milan—where history, architecture, and design converge to create a landmark of exceptional beauty and cultural significance.

The Torre Arcobaleno, originally built in 1964 as a Porta Garibaldi railway yard water tank, underwent a remarkable transformation in 1990. During Italy's hosting of the World Cup, what was once a weathered and deteriorated structure serving a utilitarian purpose was reborn as a vibrant city symbol. The renovation, which involved cladding the tower with 100,000 ceramic tiles in 14 distinct colours, turned it into a circular and colourful landmark. This restoration not only revitalized the tower but also signalled a new dedication to urban renewal and aesthetic innovation, inspiring a new era of architectural restoration.

In 2015, during the Expo Milano, the Torre Arcobaleno once again garnered global attention as it underwent further restoration. This restoration was entirely funded by the same group of companies involved in the tower's initial revitalization. It was intended as a gift to the people of Milan and was timed to coincide with a globally significant event. By then, the Garibaldi district had become the focal point of Milanese design, fashion, and modern architecture, with its futuristic skyscrapers and bustling Piazza Gae Aulenti. In this setting, the Torre Arcobaleno emerged as a "coloured ceramic totem," symbolizing the transformation of Italy's master ceramists from traditional artisans to innovative industrial creators, celebrated on the world stage.

Today, the Torre Arcobaleno enters a new phase, its outline coming to life at night with a modern LED lighting system. This cutting-edge installation, which includes 397 W LED floodlights, enhances the tower's colourful mosaic, creating a captivating glow that enchants both locals and visitors. The new lighting not only improves the tower's facade colours but also maintains energy efficiency like the previous system, ensuring that the tower's beauty is not only enhanced but also sustainable. The floodlights, with a lifespan of around 100,000 hours, promise to keep the tower's appeal alive for years to come.

The project, led by the architectural division of the Original Designers Studio 6R5 Network, which includes Francesco Roggero, Albino Pozzi, Rita Alfano Roggero, and Kiyoto Ishimoto, reflects a united effort to preserve and enhance the beauty of Torre Arcobaleno. This team of designers, acting as the project's "directors," has successfully integrated the expertise of several Made in Italy partners, all committed to showcasing the tower's nocturnal charm.

The list of partners includes top Italian companies such as Bazzea Construction Technology, responsible for the renovation work; Condor, providing formwork and scaffolding; Disano Illuminazione, in charge of the tower's new lighting; Fila Solutions, experts in surface cleaning; Marazzi Group, renowned tile manufacturers; and Mapei, who supplied the adhesives, renovation materials, and paint. This initiative is also supported by the Comune di Milano and RFI, the primary company of the Infrastructure Cluster of the Italian FS Group.

The Torre Arcobaleno, now shining brightly with its new lighting, stands as a powerful symbol of pride and creativity in Milan. Its vivid colours and impressive silhouette now stand out even more, solidifying its status as a beloved landmark and a must-see attraction for design enthusiasts worldwide. Each illuminated night, the tower conveys a tale of innovation, heritage, and Milan's enduring spirit—a city where the past and future coexist in the language of design, inviting all to be part of its rich history and promising future.

The project partners are:

Bazzea Construction Technology (renovation work)

 Condor - Formwork, Scaffolding (metal multidirectional scaffolding)

Disano Illuminazione (lighting)

Fila Solutions (surface cleaning)

Marazzi Group (tiles)

Mapei (adhesives, renovation and painting)

Comune di Milano - Milan City Council and RFI-the leading company of the Infrastructure Cluster of the Italian FS Group – Gruppo Ferrovie dello Stato - have also patronized this new initiative, in continuity with the choice made at the beginning of the history of the recovery project.

For more information: www.torrearcobaleno.it

www.torrearcobaleno.it

Bazzea

www.bazzea.it

Condor – Formwork, Scaffolding

www.condorspa.com

Disano Illuminazione

www.disano.it

Fila Solutions

www.filasolutions.com

Marazzi Group

www.marazzi.it

Mapei

www.mapei.com

Suntory Kita-Alps Shinano-no-Mori Water Plant

Nestled against the awe-inspiring Northern Alps, the Suntory Kita-Alps Shinano-no-Mori Water Plant, a masterpiece by SEMBA Corporation, is a testament to the seamless fusion of sustainable innovation and natural harmony. This experiential facility is not just a production site but a journey that immerses visitors in the essence of water, offering a unique experience that resonates with the surrounding forest. With zero CO2 emissions, the facility embodies the principles of sustainable water production while narrating the crucial story of nature's most precious resource.

The design of the plant is not just about functionality. It's a celebration of the inherent beauty of the region and the profound connection between water, mountains, and life. Every element of the facility is meticulously crafted to underscore the significance of water, inviting visitors to forge a meaningful bond with the landscape. The design concept, 'A Story Leading into the Future,' is a journey that aims to foster an appreciation for water's role in life and to inspire a vision of living in harmony with nature.

Visitors will feel seamlessly integrated into the forest environment, whether they are indoors or outdoors. The interior spaces include mountain ridge motifs, benches inspired by water droplets, and detailed mountain dioramas, creating a solid connection with nature. Outdoor terraces provide expansive views that capture the tranquillity and grandeur of the natural world.

The journey commences with an introductory tunnel. Inside the forest-located exhibition buildings, interactive displays educate visitors about forest creation and water production processes. Touch exhibits made from materials used in the factory provide a tangible connection to natural textures, while a recycling post for PET bottles reinforces the facility's unwavering commitment to sustainability. The shades of blue, inspired by the natural colours of water, create a transition from the everyday to the extraordinary, assuring visitors of the facility's dedication to environmental preservation.

One of the highlights of the experience is the visual narrative that follows water's 20-year journey from its origin in the ocean to its eventual emergence at the factory. High-resolution 6K live-action footage vividly captures the intricate process of water's journey through the earth and mountains, allowing visitors to experience a raindrop's perspective and deepen their understanding of water's natural cycle.

The project's planning phase prioritized environmental preservation. The team carefully evaluated the existing topography and vegetation to ensure the facility and visitor routes respected and preserved the landscape. Boulders found during construction were repurposed as landscape features and local granite was used to make benches in a plaza with panoramic views of Mount Gakidake. Using locally sourced Akamatsu timber for building materials and furnishings reflects a strong commitment to sustainability. To address concerns about the aging Akamatsu forests, the team collected and replanted seedlings from the site and introduced region-specific species to promote forest regeneration, showcasing the facility's dedication to environmental sustainability.

The Suntory Kita-Alps Shinano-no-Mori Water Plant has been meticulously designed with a sustainable approach to achieve its goal: creating a place where the manufacturers' aspirations for future generations to enjoy the same pure, natural water are realized. Visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for water and a renewed sense of joy in living harmoniously with nature, contributing to a cycle of empathy and sustainability that resonates throughout the region.

For more information, please visit: https://www.semba1008.co.jp/en

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

Sushi Kamosu: A Harmonious Ode to Tradition and Innovation in Interior Design

Nestled discreetly within a sleek commercial building in Hong Kong's bustling Central district, Sushi Kamosu offers more than just a dining experience; it provides a serene escape where traditional Japanese aesthetics are seamlessly intertwined with contemporary design. Crafted by the visionary team at “in Him's” Interior Design, this Edomae sushi restaurant presents a refined space that speaks to the heart of Japanese cultural heritage while embracing modernity with a touch of elegance.

As guests step into Sushi Kamosu, they are immediately greeted by an ambiance that evokes the tranquillity of a traditional Japanese home. The interior design, a masterpiece "in Him's" Interior Design, emphasizes simplicity and serenity. The gentle glide of shoji screens, made from delicate washi paper, diffuses soft, natural light across the space, creating an ethereal glow that instantly transports guests from the vibrant streets of Central to a peaceful sanctuary.

The design palette has been meticulously chosen, with natural wood tones and muted earth colours dominating the space. These elements establish a deep connection to nature, a core principle in Japanese design. The tactile qualities of the materials—smooth, polished wood juxtaposed with the subtle textures of stone—encourage guests to engage with the environment through their senses, thus enhancing the overall dining experience. The use of natural materials and the emphasis on tactile qualities not only create a serene and inviting atmosphere but also contribute to the appreciation of the culinary artistry of Edomae sushi.

The design of Sushi Kamosu revolves around the sushi counter, a unique feature that serves as the focal point reflecting the restaurant's philosophy. Carved from a single hinoki wood slab, the counter embodies purity and precision, mirroring the craftsmanship of sushi-making. Its unique design and the use of hinoki wood, known for its antibacterial properties and pleasant aroma, make it a standout feature. "in Him's" Interior Design's minimalist approach ensures that the counter serves as the heart of the space, providing a stage for the culinary artistry of Edomae sushi to shine. The surrounding space is deliberately kept uncluttered to emphasize simplicity, quality, and elegance.

The interior of Sushi Kamosu is a sophisticated blend of tradition and innovation. It reinterprets the enduring principles of Japanese design through a modern lens, creating a harmonious balance of timeless and contemporary elements. Clean lines, open spaces, and the thoughtful use of natural materials all contribute to this unique blend, inviting guests to explore and appreciate the fusion of past and present.

In an era of rapid urbanization, where cultural identity can easily be lost, Sushi Kamosu is a testament to how tradition and innovation coexist beautifully within interior design. The work of "in Him's" Interior Design demonstrates that a space rooted in history and fully engaged with the present can be created by honouring the essence of traditional Japanese aesthetics while embracing modern design elements. Here, every design decision—from the play of light and shadow to the selection of materials—contributes to an atmosphere of quiet luxury, making Sushi Kamosu a true embodiment of the harmonious blend of past and present in the heart of Hong Kong.

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

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

FUJIFILM Creative Village: A Harmonious Hub of Innovation and Sustainable Design

Set within the core of innovation, the FUJIFILM Creative Village, crafted by Tomoyuki Kobayashi of KOKUYO Co., Ltd., symbolizes collaborative creativity. This innovative complex consists of two interconnected buildings, "CLAY," Fujifilm’s design development center, and "Its," the IT development base. The Village's main objective is to enhance designers' and IT engineers' creative potential and performance, fostering collaboration to drive groundbreaking innovation. Through interdisciplinary cooperation, the FUJIFILM Creative Village not only aims to create innovative products and services but also to tackle crucial societal challenges, inspiring us all to make a positive impact.

The FUJIFILM Creative Village's interior narrative centers on placemaking and a "Studio for Creating Together." This philosophy influences every part of the design process, with all 80 members of the design department playing a pivotal role in shaping the building's identity. Their collaborative efforts go beyond traditional design boundaries, covering architecture, equipment, interior design, furniture, and signage. The outcome is a space that embodies a cohesive vision created through collaborative work at every level.

The Village's architecture and interior design embody refined simplicity. The exterior combines solid concrete with wide latticed windows, drawing inspiration from the Bauhaus philosophy. This celebrates functional beauty by eliminating the unnecessary. Every element is meticulously chosen and executed, creating an environment that exudes purpose and tension, providing fertile ground for creativity to flourish.

Internally, the building's spatial organization is intentionally designed to create specific experiences on each floor. The ground floor provides a peaceful environment for individual focus, with long desks facing large windows to encourage immersion in the creative process. Moving up to the first and second floors is a 10-meter atrium and a grand staircase, symbolizing liberation and promoting spontaneous interaction and the flow of ideas. The theme of exaltation is realized in a below-ground, an 8-meter-high hall meant for collaboration with external design organizations, presentations, cross-industrial collaborations, workshops, and academic partnerships. Additionally, the building features specialized facilities, including a prototyping room with a 3D printer, a painting booth, and a photography studio, all aimed at fostering the creative process and enhancing designers' performance.

As part of its commitment to sustainability, the FUJIFILM Creative Village has been designed with a double-skinned facade to reduce energy consumption for air conditioning and lighting. Additionally, the entire facility is powered by renewable energy sources, demonstrating Fujifilm's dedication to achieving carbon neutrality. This deliberate incorporation of environmental considerations into the design ensures that the Creative Village serves as both an innovation hub and a model of sustainable development. Specific features that promote sustainability, providing reassurance to our stakeholders and the public about our commitment to sustainability.

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

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