House with Japanese Kura: A Harmonious Fusion of Tradition and Contemporary Elegance
This luxurious residence combines traditional Japanese craftsmanship and modern design and is surrounded by tranquil Japanese gardens. At the center of the property is a historic Kura, a traditional treasure house steeped in history and symbolism, serving as a testament to the family's heritage. The owners, whose family has been in the international shipping business for generations, have carefully preserved this ancestral legacy.
The architects and designers at RON DESIGN Articious Co., Ltd. aimed to capture this mystical atmosphere by creating a design that allows the family to experience their surroundings' tranquillity and spiritual calm fully.
Architecture and Interior Design by RON DESIGN Articious Co., Ltd.
FF&E by Hiromi Hiroshima
Surrounded by tranquil Japanese gardens, this luxurious residence combines traditional Japanese craftsmanship and modern design. At the center of the property is a historic Kura, a traditional treasure house steeped in history and symbolism, serving as a testament to the family's heritage. The owners, whose family has been in the international shipping business for generations, have carefully preserved this ancestral legacy.
In the garden, there is a grand pine tree shaped like a majestic bonsai. Its ancient branches spread like a guardian spirit over the garden, the mountains, and the family it overlooks. The architects and designers at RON DESIGN Articious Co., Ltd. aimed to capture this mystical atmosphere by creating a design that allows the family to experience their surroundings' tranquillity and spiritual calm fully.
The client, deeply rooted in traditional Japanese culture while embracing modern living envisioned a home that could harmoniously blend these two worlds. The result is an awe-inspiring space where a double-height living area, kitchen, and dining room converge. A disappearing wall of glazed doors connects the interior to the lush garden and the historic Kura, bringing nature into the living space.
The living area features a striking sculpted plaster wall extending the room's total height. Created by a prominent Japanese artisan, the masterpiece captures the essence of the nearby mountains, the ocean breeze, and the historic sailing ships integral to the family's shipping business. The wall's design is a modern abstraction but is executed using traditional Japanese plastering techniques, paying homage to the enduring skills of the country's artisans.
Maintaining a balance between modern luxury and traditional essence, the hotel has a small tatami room designed for intimate tea ceremonies with clients and friends. The room showcases sliding washi paper panels that can be fully opened and discreetly tucked away within the walls to expand the open-plan living area or closed off to create a private sanctuary.
The residence's first-floor private quarters encompass five bedrooms, a spacious family bathroom, and a sizable walk-in closet that serves the entire family, eliminating the need for additional storage in each bedroom.
The 'man-cave' is a unique and highly personalized aspect of the design - a rare feature in Japan. RON DESIGN Articious Co., Ltd. envisioned this space as a hidden retreat within the house, where the client can entertain friends and business associates in a masculine yet elegant, friendly, and contemporary environment. This large L-shaped room, accessible via a private staircase, enjoys the full height of the sloping ceiling, providing a sense of seclusion and sophistication.
The house's exterior reflects its core design philosophy: the fusion of contemporary Western architecture with traditional Japanese craftsmanship. The ground floor, constructed in reinforced concrete, meets Japan's strict building and earthquake standards while embodying a modern architectural aesthetic. In contrast, the first floor is a timber structure made from locally sourced cedar and cross-laminated timber panels, symbolizing the enduring legacy of Japanese woodcraft. The exterior walls, clad in panels made of reconstituted materials, show a commitment to sustainability and innovation.
The house is designed with near-zero emissions in mind, using solar power and storage batteries for energy efficiency. Shoji screens on the south and west sides help diffuse the intense summer sun, reducing heat gain while maintaining a balance of light and shade within the home. The design ethos goes beyond aesthetics; it's a dedication to local production, material sourcing, and the employment of skilled craftspeople from the community.
This residence represents a perfect blend of history, culture, and modernity, where the old and family harmoniously converge, representing the family's legacy.
For more information, please visit: https://ron-design.jp/
*This project is one of the shortlisted project in the Sky Design Awards 2024 - Interior design - Residential Division
Designer Profile
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.
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
Bazzea
Condor – Formwork, Scaffolding
Disano Illuminazione
Fila Solutions
Marazzi Group
Mapei
Villa A: A Sculptural Ode to the Pacific
Nestled on the serene shores of Akiya Beach, Villa A emerges as a masterful fusion of architecture and nature, a unique creation by the visionary teamSTAR®. With its breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, this oceanfront retreat is more than just a residence; it is a sculptural testament to the dynamic interplay between land, sea, and sky, designed to captivate your imagination.
Nestled on the serene shores of Akiya Beach, Villa A emerges as a masterful fusion of architecture and nature, a unique creation by the visionary teamSTAR®. With its breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, this oceanfront retreat is more than just a residence; it is a sculptural testament to the dynamic interplay between land, sea, and sky, designed to captivate your imagination.
In the birthplace of Japanese yachting culture, Hayama, Villa A stands as a testament to architectural innovation. Drawing inspiration from the fluidity and power of ocean waves, the design features a striking, sizeable vaulted roof, a sculptural marvel that evokes the rolling waves. This architectural gesture defines the villa's exterior and shapes the experience within, guiding the flow of light and space throughout the home. It's a design that will surely captivate your imagination.
Perched on a southwest-facing hillside, the villa's positioning provides more than just a beautiful view. The westward-facing roof is aligned with the iconic silhouette of Mt. Fuji, ensuring that the majestic mountain and the endless expanse of the Pacific are constant companions to the residents. The villa's design embraces its coastal setting, with each room offering a unique perspective on the ocean's ever-changing moods.
The journey through Villa A begins at the basement-level entrance hall, designed to evoke the mysterious allure of the ocean floor. A white spiral staircase, reminiscent of a seashell's delicate curves, ascends from the depths, leading residents and guests to the villa's main living areas. As one reaches the top, the grandeur of the Pacific Ocean is revealed in a view that is both dramatic and serene, a testament to the careful orchestration of space and sightlines.
The villa's design is cleverly adapted to the natural shape of the site, with the step-like progression of the vaulted roof's arches reflecting the slope of the hillside. This thoughtful approach reduces environmental impact, as the floor levels follow the land's natural slope, reducing the need for extensive excavation. This design choice not only preserves the site's integrity but also enhances the villa's connection to its surroundings, creating a series of interior spaces that are both cozy and spacious.
Each room in Villa A offers a unique view, whether it's the entrance hall, the sunlit living room, the elegant dining area, the comfortable loft, or the modern kitchen. The interiors are filled with shades of emerald green, reminiscent of the vibrant waters of coastal reefs and shallow bays, while the colour scheme of the main level suggests the feeling of sailing on a luxurious yacht. The curved lines of the vaulted roof continue this maritime theme, giving the interior spaces a sense of endless possibility and freedom.
Constructed primarily of reinforced concrete, Villa A's structure is anchored by its innovative roof, composed of continuous arches crafted from 7-meter-long by 900-millimeter-thick cross-laminated timber panels. This wooden structure, with its precise planning and execution, not only showcases teamSTAR®'s technical prowess but also brings warmth and natural texture to the villa's design.
The living room has distinctive large sash windows that blur the boundary between indoors and outdoors. When opened, these windows invite the ocean breeze and the sounds of the surf into the home, creating a seamless flow between the interior and the expansive terrace. This outdoor oasis features an infinity pool that seems to merge with the horizon, a wood-burning sauna, an outdoor kitchen, and a jacuzzi. Each element is thoughtfully placed to enhance the experience of coastal living, offering a luxurious retreat for relaxation and entertainment.
Villa A is not just a home; it is a celebration of the coastal lifestyle. With its architectural grandeur, luxurious amenities, and profound connection to the natural world, Villa A stands as a testament to the art of living by the sea. Every detail is crafted to embrace the beauty of the blue waters at its doorstep, creating a sense of harmony and tranquillity for its residents, and a deep connection to the natural world.
For more information, please visit: https://starchitects.info/
*This project is one of the shortlisted project in the Sky Design Awards 2024 - Architecture 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.
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 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/
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