issen: A Sanctuary of Tradition and Taste in the Heart of Asakusa

Located in the serene streets of Oku-Asakusa in Tokyo's Taito ward, Issen, designed by Takasu Gaku Design and Associates, is a unique destination that transcends the typical tea and dessert shop. It offers an immersive journey into Japan's deep-rooted food and cultural traditions, providing a unique cultural experience. Spread across a 25-square-meter space, Issen profoundly reflects Japanese aesthetics and craftsmanship. Situated within walking distance of the bustling Asakusa Temple, Issen offers a tranquil escape for those seeking a more intentional and unhurried experience of Japanese culture, away from the tourist crowds.

The heart of Issen's philosophy lies in its tribute to the relationship between food and culture. Each dish is a curated celebration of Japan's diverse agricultural heritage. The shop's owner undertakes a personal pilgrimage across the country, visiting the fields and workshops of Japan's rural heartlands to select only the finest tea leaves and ingredients. This meticulous curation process, infused with a personal touch, brings a level of authenticity that elevates the dining experience, where every bite and sip is imbued with the stories of the artisans and farmers behind the produce.

The food served at Issen goes beyond mere sustenance—it is an invitation to appreciate the nuanced flavors and textures that have been shaped by Japan's diverse climates and terrains. The teas, sourced from small farms, are brewed with precision, their natural flavors enhanced by the care taken in both cultivation and preparation. The desserts, too, are a delicate interplay of seasonal ingredients, with an emphasis on freshness and balance. These dishes are not only visually appealing but are meant to engage the diner's senses fully, from the subtle fragrance of the tea to the delicate sweetness of the desserts, creating an exciting culinary experience.

The design of Issen reflects the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi, where beauty is found in simplicity and imperfection. It is a masterclass in restraint and reverence for natural materials. The earthen floors provide a tactile connection to the earth, while the natural stone counters offer a sturdy, grounded surface that contrasts with the lightness of the washi-paper walls. These walls resemble traditional earth walls but are crafted with handmade washi paper, lending the space a subtle texture that invites touch and evokes the rich tactile history of Japanese craftsmanship. The shop feels like an organic extension of the land, where every material tells a story of the natural world from which it was derived.

In the spirit of the Japanese tea ceremony, Nissan encourages guests to take their time and fully enjoy the experience. The peaceful atmosphere, highlighted by a prominent, handcrafted washi light fixture, blurs the line between indoor and outdoor spaces. The fixture, featuring a cascading water pattern, surrounds the counter area and brings to mind the calmness of a flowing stream. This reference to the outdoor, no-date tea ceremony adds a modern touch to the space, where nature is always present, even within the confines of this cozy tearoom.

The design promotes a calm, almost meditative experience, where the owner's actions and service delivery contribute to the overall aesthetic. Each movement is deliberate and filled with purpose, reminiscent of the traditional Japanese tea ceremony's philosophy of ichigo ichie. This concept emphasizes the fleeting nature of each moment and the significance of cherishing the present.

In many ways, Issen is an extension of Japan's cultural landscape. It expresses a deep connection to nature, tradition, and craftsmanship. The space bridges the old and the new, seamlessly integrating contemporary design with centuries-old practices. Visitors at Issen are not simply dining; they participate in a ritual honouring Japan's profound cultural heritage. Eating and drinking tea reflects a broader, more interconnected world.

The experience at Issen is more than just culinary; it is cultural, sensory, and deeply personal. It offers an opportunity to disconnect from the frenetic pace of modern life and reconnect with the simplicity and beauty that has defined Japan for centuries. Through the careful selection of ingredients, the mindful design of the space, and the reverence for tradition, Issen stands as a testament to the enduring power of Japanese design and culinary artistry.

Designer Profile

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

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

AEON MALL Mean Chey: A Fusion of Culture, Innovation, and Community in the Heart of Phnom Penh

Situated in the heart of Phnom Penh, AEON MALL Mean Chey is more than just a retail center. It offers a transformative experience that has redefined the shopping scene in Cambodia. This innovative project, designed by SEMBA Corporation, combines advanced technology with cultural preservation, creating a lively space that drew over 300,000 visitors within its first week. With approximately 250 stores offering a wide range of products, including fashion, lifestyle, entertainment, and dining, AEON MALL Mean Chey provides more than just a shopping experience - it is a dynamic destination for leisure, community, and culture.

AEON MALL Mean Chey stands out due to its ambitious architecture, a unique blend of modernity and tradition. The design team at SEMBA Corporation has crafted a multi-sensory environment that draws from Cambodia's rich cultural heritage. The mall's architectural elements integrate motifs and design patterns that honour the country's artistic past while embracing contemporary aesthetics. This thoughtful blend of the old and new gives the space a unique character, making it a living homage to Cambodia's evolving identity.

At the heart of the mall is an awe-inspiring atrium. It's a 10,000-square-meter space with a soaring 30-meter ceiling, crowned by Cambodia's most advanced digital signage installation. The atrium is a visual centrepiece and a hub of activity and interaction. Visitors can experience the extraordinary Sky Bridge, an entirely glass structure 18 meters above the ground that can accommodate 200 people at a time, offering panoramic views of the mall and beyond. Flooded with natural light and accented by digital installations, this space serves as both a gathering point and a showcase of SEMBA's visionary approach to design.

Technology plays a vital role throughout the mall, with strategically placed LED screens creating an immersive environment for events and performances. This forward-thinking integration of digital media transforms the entire mall into a flexible event space capable of hosting everything from large-scale concerts to intimate gatherings. The event hall, which can accommodate 3,000 people, is an architectural marvel in its own right—designed to effortlessly transition from concerts to art exhibitions, seminars, and even weddings. This multifunctionality is a testament to SEMBA Corporation's commitment to creating spaces that serve the community's ever-evolving needs.

The design of AEON MALL Mean Chey goes beyond mere functionality. The mall's exterior features a curtain wall with LED lighting, displaying dynamic shapes and text that change with the seasons or special events. This façade transforms the mall into a beacon of expression for the local community, allowing residents to use the space as a platform for sending messages and engaging with their city in a new, interactive way. Inside, the mall's dedication to cultural preservation is evident, with features such as an SDGs Art Wall created by children, digital art by Cambodian female artists, and shadow pictures—an ancient Cambodian art form recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage.

The outdoor spaces at AEON MALL Mean Chey are truly impressive. They provide visitors with a unique urban park in the heart of Phnom Penh's commercial district. This beautifully landscaped area includes seating areas and open spaces for events, inviting visitors to take a break from the busy shopping scene and enjoy a natural, relaxed environment. With a third-floor walking track and a kids' slide connecting the floors, the mall is designed to provide a holistic lifestyle experience.

The mall's design is built on a foundation of sustainability. SEMBA Corporation has utilized eco-friendly materials, such as recycled plastics for custom furniture, and implemented magnetically replaceable signage to reduce waste. Furthermore, the mall features a large-scale solar power system and dedicated electric vehicle parking, demonstrating its commitment to environmental responsibility. AEON MALL Mean Chey has already obtained EDGE Green Building certification and is working towards securing Green RE certification, establishing itself as a standard for sustainable development in Cambodia.

AEON MALL Mean Chey transcends the typical retail experience. It combines technology, culture, and sustainability to create a space that not only serves as a cultural landmark but also a vibrant community hub. From its carefully curated design elements to its eco-conscious infrastructure, AEON MALL Mean Chey sets a new standard for malls in Cambodia. It's not just about shopping; it's about creating a vibrant and adaptable space that will grow and change along with the needs and aspirations of the local community.

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: Leisure and Wellness Division

Weirdo Beauty: Where Futuristic Design and Holistic Beauty Unite

In the vibrant energy of Hong Kong's Causeway Bay, Weirdo Beauty stands as a symbol of the avant-garde. It is a flagship cosmetic medical center where beauty and technology come together in an awe-inspiring showcase of spatial design. The vision behind this 300-square-meter sanctuary is brought to life by the acclaimed Arti Studio Limited, which seamlessly blends aesthetics, functionality, and sensory experience with its innovative approach.

At Weirdo Beauty, Arti Studio Limited is redefining the traditional beauty center concept. They have created a fluid, dynamic space that rejects the clinical, impersonal atmosphere of typical medical centers. The design is a masterclass in spatial storytelling, where every element has been meticulously crafted to enhance the visitor's journey. Stepping inside is like being transported into a carefully orchestrated world of tranquillity and wonder, where the unique sensory experience will leave you intrigued and excited.

"The design is based on the thoughtful manipulation of form and texture. The walls are covered in a coral-toned textured finish, creating a warm and tranquil atmosphere. This carefully selected colour palette reflects Arti Studio's deep understanding of how colour can influence mood, reinforcing Weirdo Beauty's commitment to a holistic, sensory experience."

The studio's skill in creating fluid forms is evident in the sinuous, organic curves that shape the space. These curves create a sense of continuous motion and flow, breaking away from the rigid lines usually found in medical environments. This visual language is not just decorative; it emphasizes a core philosophy: beauty is an ever-evolving, dynamic concept.

The interior is designed to unfold like a scene from a science-fiction story, with dramatic transitions challenging traditional spatial arrangements. The reception area has a gently lit, curving tunnel that leads into the center, creating a more intriguing atmosphere. At the heart of the center, the reception lounge is a dramatic composition of architectural elements. A tree-like display wall rises from the floor and seamlessly merges into the ceiling, symbolizing the integration of nature and futuristic design. An elevated spline screen defines seating and corridor spaces, while artificial skylights create a diffused, natural glow, enhancing the tranquil mood.

Arti Studio Limited is committed to creating a multi-sensory experience which extends into the lighting design. Every light fixture, from the skylights to the adjustable ambient lighting in the waiting area, has been crafted with versatility, offering a setting that can adapt to any event or guest need. This is where design goes beyond aesthetics, becoming an emotional and psychological tool that shapes the visitor's experience.

As you move further into the space, the design continues to impress. Before reaching the treatment rooms, an observation tower-like corridor reveals floor-to-ceiling windows that frame breathtaking views of Victoria Harbour. This architectural choice creates a dramatic interplay between the built environment and the natural world, highlighting the center's connection to its surroundings. The curtain wall design offers unobstructed views and allows the changing light and weather to interact with the space, ensuring that each visit feels entirely unique.

The treatment rooms, designed for maximum privacy and comfort, represent the culmination of your journey at Weirdo Beauty. Here, Arti Studio Limited combines modernist design principles with state-of-the-art technology, ensuring that the space is not only functional but also transformative. You can rest assured that you will leave these rooms feeling confident and rejuvenated.

The juxtaposition of cutting-edge beauty treatments with serene, thoughtfully designed interiors at Weirdo Beauty creates an environment that makes visitors feel rejuvenated and inspired. You will leave feeling uplifted and motivated, ready to take on the world with a renewed sense of confidence and beauty.

At Weirdo Beauty, we offer more than just beauty treatments. We provide a reimagined space where the boundaries of beauty and technology merge into a cohesive, immersive experience. Our avant-garde design, commitment to a multi-sensory experience, and the integration of nature and futuristic design make us a sanctuary beyond the ordinary. We offer a journey that engages the senses and uplifts the spirit. From the dynamic spatial design to the ever-changing natural light that filters through the windows, Weirdo Beauty represents a groundbreaking achievement in aesthetic and architectural design; it's a place where beauty intersects with innovation.

---

Project Name: Beauty of Light

Project location：Causeway Bay, Hong Kong Completion Date: April 2023

Client：Weirdo Beauty Designer：Raymond Lee

Photographer：Raymond Lee Floor area：300m2

For more information, please visit: http://www.arti.studio

*This project is one of the shortlisted project in the Sky Design Awards 2024 - Interior Design: Leisure and Wellness Division

Embracing Nature's Elegance: A Harmonious Retreat in Niseko Inspired by Snow, Moon, and Flowers"

The hotel is located in the picturesque Niseko, Hokkaido, a top-tier ski destination which reflects Japan's natural beauty throughout the year. The unique design concept is inspired by the ancient Chinese poem 'Setsu Getsu Ka' (which symbolizes the beauty of snow, moon, and flowers), and it resonates perfectly with Niseko's landscape, where the majestic Mount Yotei is draped in snow under the moonlight, and the seasons unfold in perfect harmony.

The FIELD FOUR DESIGN OFFICE took on the challenge of designing a space that combines Japanese aesthetics with international hospitality. The goal was not just to include traditional Japanese elements in a modern space, but to create an environment that combines cultural authenticity with a welcoming, contemporary experience. Instead of imposing a strictly traditional atmosphere on international guests, the design reflects a nuanced understanding of Japanese spatial philosophy in a modern and accessible manner.

The design takes inspiration from the nearby landscape, especially the tranquil Mount Yotei, to capture the essence of the location. This design strategy goes beyond creating a luxurious hotel and aims to provide a deep connection to nature, offering guests an immersive experience. The architecture harmonizes with the surroundings, reflecting the snowy winters, moonlit nights, and vibrant spring scenery that define the region.

In the guest suites, design elements invite the outside in. Beneath expansive windows, a continuous daybed bench stretches from one side of the room to another, drawing inspiration from traditional Japanese dwellings' rim and attic structures. Above, a dropped ceiling, reminiscent of eaves, creates a sense of shelter and openness. Integrating the windowsill as an intermediary space between the interior and exterior allows guests to feel fully immersed in the surrounding landscape.

The spatial arrangement in Japanese design focuses on a lower eye level, creating a grounded experience similar to sitting on tatami mats. Lighting and focal elements are positioned at this level, enhancing the sense of spaciousness. The design's low center of gravity and horizontal lines further emphasize a tranquil experience, encouraging guests to appreciate the beauty of the Japanese landscape from a calm and reflective perspective.

The hotel embodies the essence of Japan's "Setsu Getsu Ka" – the snow, moon, and flowers. It creates a space that harmonizes with the natural world and the timeless beauty of the seasons. The interior materials are minimalistic, with cohesive tones, subtle contrasts, and soft indirect lighting. This approach enhances the stunning seasonal vistas of Niseko, creating a calm and contemplative environment that reflects the serene beauty of Japan's natural landscapes. Each design element is carefully chosen to strengthen the connection between the guest and the ever-changing scenery outside, providing a tranquil and immersive retreat.

More than just a place to stay, the hotel embodies the essence of Japan's 'Setsu Getsu Ka'—the snow, moon, and flowers—creating a space that harmonizes with the natural world and the timeless beauty of the seasons. Our hotel offers a range of amenities and services, including a spa, fine dining restaurants, and personalized concierge services, to ensure that your stay is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

For more information, please visit: https://www.field4.co.jp/

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

Liangcai Wu Eyeglasses Flagship Store: A Seamless Fusion of Heritage and Modernity

For over 300 years, Liangcai Wu Eyeglasses has been a beacon of exceptional optical craftsmanship in China. With a deep-rooted tradition, the brand has not just survived, but thrived, adapting to changing consumer preferences over the centuries. Now, as Generation Z shapes the market with a preference for experiential, offline shopping, Liangcai Wu Eyeglasses is not just embracing the future, but shaping it. The brand's newly redesigned flagship store on Nanjing Road, a masterpiece by the renowned Dayuan Design, is a testament to this resilience, blending Liangcai Wu's cultural heritage with a fresh, youthful aesthetic.

The store's concept centers around transformation, both in terms of materials and brand. Dayuan Design is inspired by the founding family's jade business, precisely the intricate craftsmanship in turning raw stone into beautiful, polished jade. This refinement process is reflected in the store's layout, where visitors can experience the craft firsthand as they move through the space.

An Immersive Retail Journey Rooted in Craftsmanship

Dayuan Design's store design is based on the concept of "craftsmanship," meticulously creating spaces that evoke the artistry behind jade carving. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a quarry-like environment with towering stone mountains and deep, cavernous spaces reflecting nature's creation's raw beauty. This design choice represents the early stages of jade crafting—rough, unpolished stone slowly revealing its inner beauty through skilled artisans' hands. The textured, uneven surfaces of the walls echo the passage of time, suggesting the sedimentation of history and the indelible marks left by master craftsmen over generations.

The design carries this story forward by contrasting rugged and refined elements. Dayuan Design excels in blending the natural and the architectural, combining the wild with the elegant. Despite its small size, the retail area achieves this balance by mixing modern, clean lines with raw textures, creating a serene yet dynamic atmosphere. The designers effectively communicate a sense of continuity, where history is preserved and made relevant through contemporary reinterpretation.

The Time Corridor: A Bridge Between Past and Present

As visitors walk through the first floor, they will come across a fascinating display of jade grinding tools, paying tribute to the centuries-old tradition of craftsmanship. Accompanied by the gentle sound of stone grinding, this installation is a symbolic entrance to the second floor, appropriately named the 'Time Corridor.' The 'Time Corridor' is a carefully designed space that takes visitors on a journey through Liangcai Wu's history, with areas designed to evoke the gradual refinement of jade. The second floor's design introduces polished, time-worn jade surfaces that seamlessly blend with modern materials, creating a space that connects Liangcai Wu's rich history with the forward-looking ambitions of today.

The Time Corridor leads to a sleek, simple space where traditional jade craftsmanship transforms into a modern representation of the brand's history. Dayuan Design intelligently uses materials like stone, metal, and jade to symbolize Liangcai Wu's journey through time and encourage visitors to interact with the brand's heritage in a tangible way.

Cultural Storytelling Through Design

The flagship store features the 'Mountain Quarry' art installation, a symbolic representation of the enduring history of Liangcai Wu Eyeglasses. Designed by Dayuan Design, the installation showcases a mechanical, metallic aesthetic that gives it a futuristic look. This bold visual statement connects the brand's past to its future, emphasizing that Liangcai Wu is rooted in tradition and evolving to meet modern sensibilities.

The retail space draws inspiration from traditional Chinese medicine cabinets, blending heritage with contemporary design. The result is a display system that is both stylish and practical, reflecting the precision of the eyewear while paying tribute to centuries-old display techniques.

"Dayuan Design's vision goes beyond a typical retail space. The flagship store is a versatile area that blurs the line between business and culture. The store showcases eyewear and features exhibition spaces, a coffee shop, and an exclusive VIP fitting room. These thoughtful additions turn the store into a cultural center where customers can do more than just shop; they are encouraged to socialize, linger, and delve into the brand's history. This multifaceted approach enhances the customer experience, fostering stronger connections with visitors and building brand loyalty."

Sustainable Design for a Dynamic Future

Sustainability is at the core of Dayuan Design's approach. They use modular, movable installations to ensure that the space can adapt over time, reducing the need for extensive renovations and allowing for a flexible response to changing functional needs over the next three to five years. This not only minimizes environmental impact but also enhances the economic viability of the project. It provides a forward-thinking model for retail design that aligns with contemporary concerns about sustainability.

In their flagship store on Nanjing Road, Dayuan Design has created an immersive, multifunctional space that pays homage to Liangcai Wu Eyeglasses' rich heritage while preparing it for the future. By skillfully blending modern and traditional elements, the design narrates the story of craftsmanship in a way that resonates with today's consumers while maintaining the brand's timeless essence. Through this seamless fusion of old and new, Liangcai Wu Eyeglasses is entering a new chapter that promises to uphold its legacy with grace and innovation.

For more information, please visit: www.dayuan.net

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

---

Katajanokan Laituri, new wooden landmark building in Helsinki, houses a hotel aiming to be the most sustainable one in Finland

Solo Sokos Hotel Pier 4 Exterior | Photographer: Kalle Kouhia/ Anttinen Oiva arkkitehdit Oy

Increasing wood construction is one way to build a more sustainable future and achieve Helsinki's target of becoming carbon-neutral by 2030. Designed by Anttinen Oiva Architects, Katajanokan Laituri is an impressive new solid wood building on Helsinki's shoreline that complements the city's signature skyline right next to the Market Square. The building houses the head office of Finnish forest industry company Stora Enso and the new design hotel Solo Sokos Hotel Pier 4, which aims to be the most sustainable hotel in Finland. With the upcoming Museum of Architecture and Design, the area is developing into an exciting new hub of art and design beside the sea.

Developing the city's building stock plays a key role in achieving the sustainability goals. It is important for Helsinki to create a lively urban environment and to make the city's 131-kilometre shoreline even more accessible to locals and visitors. "The aim of transforming the Katajanokka shoreline area is to create a lively urban space. With this project, we will be able to open the shoreline to the people of Helsinki. A building made of wood, that is durable and has as low a carbon footprint as possible meets the city’s goals,” says Deputy Mayor Anni Sinnemäki. 

Helsinki’s new Architecture and Design Museum will further increase the appeal of the area. The first phase of the design competition closed on 29 August 2024.

Katajanokan Laituri lobby | Photographer: Kalle Kouhia/ Anttinen Oiva arkkitehdit Oy

A new architectural landmark in Helsinki’s historical centre

Katajanokan Laituri is a modern Finnish wooden building whose timeless architecture is the work of the award-winning Anttinen Oiva Architects. The building is owned by Varma Mutual Pension Insurance Company and it houses the head office of the forest industry company Stora Enso, which also supplied the solid wood load-bearing elements of the building. The four-storey building is made from Finnish and Swedish timber and combines pioneering architectural methods with traditional and sustainable materials.

Wooden structures have been left visible in the interior as much as possible, and nature is also strongly present: in addition to solar panels, the building features a multi-species green roof, and a small birch tree forest is growing in hotel’s atrium. The building functions as a carbon storage and is made to last for the next 100 years. Flood protection also makes the building future proof, as it can withstand a water level rise of more than 3 metres.

Stora Enso’s former head office designed by legendary Finnish architect Alvar Aalto is located right next to the new building. The district is otherwise known for its Art Nouveau architecture from the beginning of the 20th century. A short walk away is Helsinki's historic centre designed by Carl Ludvig Engel.

Finland's most environmentally sustainable hotel

The new Solo Sokos Hotel Pier 4 aims to be the most sustainable hotel in Finland in terms of everything from the building itself to the hotel’s functions and services. A LEED Platinum environmental certificate will be applied for the whole building aiming for carbon neutrality and using energy solely from renewable sources. The hotel will also apply for Green Key and Sustainable Travel Finland certificates.

The hotel has 164 rooms, 43 of which afford unobstructed views to the sea. The hotel also has conference facilities, a seaside café and a rooftop terrace with views over the Market Square and South Harbour.​ The hotel restaurant Harbore is led by Sauli Kemppainen, a Finnish chef with passion for simplicity and pure taste. He has previously been awarded a Michelin star. Each dish at Harbore consists of only two main ingredients prepared in various ways, such as reindeer and onion, with Finnish and Nordic produce accounting for up to 85 percent of all ingredients used.​