RIVAL Office: A Runway for Creativity designed by KAMITOPEN Co., Ltd.

The TRIVAL office, designed by Kamitopen, transforms the traditional workspace into a dynamic environment where creativity, functionality, and aesthetic minimalism come together. TRIVAL is a company that specializes in producing visual content, from advertising and web media to digital signage. They needed an office space that reflected their fast-paced, media-driven culture. Masahiro Yoshida, the visionary behind Kamitopen, aimed to design a space that mirrored the daily rhythms of TRIVAL's work environment while fostering a sense of energy and movement.

The central feature of the design is the "Runway," which redefines how office spaces can facilitate interaction and workflow. In media production, TRIVAL's employees constantly engage with models and clients, conducting interviews and coordinating projects that require a seamless blend of creativity and efficiency. This is where the runway concept comes into play - a literal and symbolic path that connects the entire office, linking the front entrance directly to the director's office in the back.

The runway is not just a passage; it serves as the heartbeat of the office. Located in the center of the space, it directs the flow of activity and sets the stage for the open, fluid nature of the office's daily operations. Flanked on either side by essential rooms such as meeting spaces, workstations, and creative areas, the runway is both a guiding framework and an architectural statement. It directs movement while visually anchoring the environment, making it functional and aspirational.

"Balancing Space and Privacy

Kamitopen incorporated natural elements into the design to create an open yet private atmosphere. Rows of strategically placed plants line the walkway, acting as organic barriers that subtly control the distance between those walking and those seated at their desks. This design choice achieves a delicate balance by promoting interaction while maintaining personal focus. The plants act as visual and physical buffers, creating zones that encourage productivity without isolating employees from each other, ensuring a thoughtful balance between openness and privacy.

The intentional minimalism of the material palette reinforces the sense of openness. Kamitopen chose a sleek, streamlined approach, using materials sparingly to ensure the focus remained on the spatial layout and the runway itself. By minimizing material usage, the design stays true to its core purpose: to create a sense of volume and lightness while emphasizing efficiency. This choice aligns with Kamitopen's broader design philosophy, which often focuses on spatial storytelling-a concept where the design of a space tells a story about its purpose and the people who use it-and a thoughtful approach to translating client needs into architectural forms.

The Emotional and Practical Impact

The TRIVAL office is not only visually appealing but also designed to prioritize the well-being and comfort of its employees. The layout, highlighted by the runway, encourages natural movement, making the environment feel more dynamic and less static. This design allows employees to move seamlessly from one area to another, promoting a sense of ease and comfort throughout the workday. The runway symbolizes the company's creative journey, inspiring employees to feel like they are stepping onto a stage, with each day offering new opportunities for engagement, collaboration, and innovation. The practical impact of the design ensures that the TRIVAL office is not just a workplace, but a space that employees eagerly anticipate being in.

Kamitopen's design aims to transform the office into a space that employees eagerly anticipate being in rather than just a workplace. The design promotes interaction without enforcing strict structure by prioritizing flow and flexibility. This approach effectively aligns with the fast-paced, media-centric world in which TRIVAL operates-a world where quick decision-making, constant communication, and adaptability are key. The design of the TRIVAL office reflects these aspects, creating an environment that supports the company's work culture.

A Workplace Reinvented

The TRIVAL project showcases Kamitopen's talent for combining functionality with a minimalist design, creating a spacious and cozy workspace. The runway serves as more than just a walkway; it symbolizes the connection of the company's operations, embodying the energy and movement that define TRIVAL's work. Through reimagining the use of space and incorporating innovative design elements, Kamitopen has designed an office that prioritizes fostering creativity and enhancing comfort and practicality.

The TRIVAL office represents a new paradigm in workplace design, where space, movement, and minimalism come together to create an environment that is functional and inspirational. Kamitopen has uniquely designed the space to reflect the essence of TRIVAL's creative work, enhancing the daily experiences of those who work there.

For more information, please visit: http://kamitopen.com/en/

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

Villa P: Where Modern Minimalism Meets Natural Harmony

Located in the serene and lush forest of Toyota, Aichi, Japan, Villa P is a stunning architectural creation by KIRYU ATELIER＆T Architects Co., Ltd. Lead architect Seiji Takahashi's design philosophy is deeply rooted in the Japanese aesthetic of wabi-sabi, which celebrates the beauty of imperfection and impermanence. His design beautifully combines tradition and modernity, seamlessly integrating nature with structure, heritage with innovation, and light with shadow.

Villa P is characterized by its seamless integration with the surrounding environment. The architect has thoughtfully incorporated natural elements from the site, such as large river rocks, emphasizing a deep respect for nature. Situated near a tranquil river, the villa harmoniously blends with its surroundings, reflecting Japanese architectural traditions prioritizing context and environment. The juxtaposition of modern., sturdy concrete forms with softer, organic materials ensures the building feels contemporary and deeply connected to the land. This interplay between the natural world and the built environment is a fundamental aspect of KIRYU ATELIER's design philosophy, promoting harmony between the physical structure and the external landscape.

The interior of the villa reflects the same design principles as the exterior. The large concrete walls, painted transparent black, create a space that celebrates natural light. Light becomes a defining feature, with shadows from the architecture and surrounding foliage constantly shaping the interior environment. The concrete's texture is warm and minimalistic, capturing an elegant simplicity that allows light and shadow to define each room. This level of precision is typical of Seiji Takahashi's work—where form and light engage in a continuous dialogue, inspiring reflection and creativity.

Villa P is more than just a home; it is a sanctuary for creativity. The adaptable design, featuring multifunctional spaces such as an atelier, gallery, and a theater that can transform into a party room when needed, reflects the modern need for fluidity and openness in living spaces. It offers both solitude and connection, depending on the desired atmosphere, and is a place where one can find peace and inspiration.

The design of Villa P enhances the feeling of peace and resilience. The thick concrete walls provide excellent insulation, keeping the interior comfortable year-round without relying on complex climate control systems. Despite its imposing appearance, the concrete offers a sense of security, acting as a protective barrier that connects the residents with nature while shielding them from the outside world.

Villa P is a study in contrasts, both in its aesthetic and its philosophy. The angular, minimal architecture stands in stark contrast to the natural curves and organic shapes of the surrounding landscape. This deliberate contrast, a central theme in Japanese architecture, is enhanced through thoughtful design decisions by Takahashi. The villa's open yet protected spaces blur the lines between interior and exterior, inviting the outside in and challenging traditional notions of space and form.

Ultimately, Villa P is an architectural achievement and an experiential one. The villa represents the best contemporary Japanese design, standing out with its unique blend of tradition and modernity, its seamless integration of nature with structure, and its emphasis on light and shadow. Seiji Takahashi's architectural language speaks to an elegance born of contrasts and balance, creating a residence that resonates deeply with those who inhabit and experience it.

For more information, please visit; https://t-arch.main.jp/

*This project is one of the shortlisted project in the Sky Design Awards 2024 - Architecture : Residential and Urban Design

Creating Spaces of Happiness: NOMURA's Vision Shines at SC Business Fair 2023

At the SC Business Fair 2023, NOMURA showcased a booth demonstrating their unparalleled expertise in creating spaces promoting happiness and human connection. The fair is one of the most anticipated events in the retail and shopping center industry, bringing together top players to present innovative concepts, products, and designs that will influence the future of commercial spaces. For NOMURA, this was an opportunity to exhibit their expertise and inspire confidence in their ability to shape the future of spatial design, reflecting the guiding philosophy they have been perfecting for over a century.

The booth's theme was directly linked to the book "Let's Create a Happy Space—The hard-working people of NOMURA," published to commemorate NOMURA's 130th anniversary. This publication celebrates the company's legacy of designing environments that inspire joy and comfort, whether in museums, hotels, or entertainment venues. The booth at the fair carried forward this narrative, focusing on creating a "happy space" for visitors with design elements that emphasized warmth, hospitality, and well-being.

The booth's design was simple yet sophisticated. It featured a white base contrasted with mirrored walls, creating a sense of openness and light. Books were thoughtfully arranged on shelves and fixtures, inviting visitors to engage with NOMURA's story of innovation and dedication to spatial design. Complementing the visual experience was a coffee hospitality service, which added an extra layer of comfort and encouraged conversation and relaxation within the booth. These elements' integration crafted a welcoming and personal space, drawing in approximately 670 visitors over the three-day event.

The NOMURA booth went beyond just aesthetics. It was a powerful reflection of their deep understanding of how environments influence human behaviour and emotions. The thoughtful attention to detail, from the clean lines of the layout to the seamless interaction with visitors, showcased NOMURA's ability to create spaces that function and evoke positive emotional responses. This profound impact on human emotions is what has earned them their place as leaders in the world of spatial design. They consistently push the boundaries across disciplines to create environments that resonate with people. This ability is not just impressive but genuinely inspiring.

In a world where retail environments are becoming more than just places of transaction, NOMURA's work at the SC Business Fair 2023 highlighted the future of experiential design. It demonstrated that creating spaces that inspire happiness isn't just about design. Crafting experiences that foster human connections and leave lasting impressions is critical. This forward-thinking approach is innovative and fascinating, showing the potential for the future of spatial design.

The SC Business Fair has always been a platform for innovation. However, NOMURA's approach at the 2023 event showed that the future of shopping centers relies on practical design and creating spaces that promote a strong sense of belonging and emotional engagement. Their booth was a testament to this, leaving visitors impressed and inspired by the future of spatial design.

This approach reflects NOMURA's long-standing vision of creating environments beyond physical structures to become venues for shared experiences, creativity, and joy.

Designer Profiles

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

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

Invisible Harmony: How Design Fosters Coexistence Between Smokers and Non-Smokers

Semba's groundbreaking initiative is a direct response to the growing tension in urban environments. The project redefines the concept of smoking areas, addressing both etiquette and coexistence between smokers and non-smokers. Prompted by Japan's 2020 legislative changes aimed at reducing passive smoking, many outdoor smoking areas were dismantled due to non-compliance with stricter regulations. The resulting scarcity of designated spaces concentrated smokers into fewer locations, inadvertently leading to a rise in problematic behaviour, such as street smoking and littering of cigarette butts. In this context, Semba's project to rethink smoking zones under the theme of Diversity & Inclusion is a beacon of hope, enhancing smoker behaviour while minimizing discomfort for non-smokers.

This innovative project features' optical camouflage,' a design that makes the smoking area almost invisible to passersby. It integrates 37 stainless steel cylindrical mirrors arranged in a hemispherical, random pattern. The mirrors reflect the surrounding urban landscape, making the structure and people seemingly vanish into the cityscape. This blend of architecture and environment creates an optical illusion, allowing the smoking area to feel like a natural part of its surroundings rather than an intrusive addition. On the reverse side of the mirrors is greenery, enhancing the area's organic connection to nature and mimicking natural phenomena like the sway of wind and rain. This subtle integration fosters a calming atmosphere and a gentle reminder of the need for thoughtful behaviour. The 'optical camouflage' design not only provides a visually appealing smoking area but also serves as a social cue, encouraging smokers to be more considerate in their behavior.

The mirrored arrangement not only looks good but also has a positive impact on behaviour. The reflective surfaces allow smokers to see themselves and how others react to them. Feeling like they are being observed encourages smokers to act more considerately. When smokers see their behaviour reflected back at them, they are more likely to regulate themselves and respect the boundaries of the smoking area. The design creates an inviting and discreet space, discouraging smoking on the street and keeping smoking activities within designated areas.

The design of the smoking area not only enhances the urban environment but also addresses practical concerns. The partitions discreetly conceal the interior, reducing the visual presence of smoke. Moreover, the thoughtful height specifications help contain the spread of smoke and its associated odours to non-smokers, contributing to a cleaner and more pleasant urban landscape.

This project is a testament to the power of design in promoting peaceful coexistence between smokers and non-smokers. This coexistence is not just a practical solution but also a reflection of a broader cultural value in a society that celebrates diversity. By creating a space that incorporates natural elements like rain and wind, Semba has brought to life the concept of an 'uncertain existence partition' – a space that accommodates the presence and subtle disappearance of smoking zones within the city. This initiative is a design project and a social commentary on the importance of inclusion and mutual respect. Through thoughtful design, Semba has provided a model for a future where smokers and non-smokers can share public spaces without conflict, laying the groundwork for a more considerate and unified urban experience.

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: Pop-Up Division

Cultural Heritage Reimagined: The Contemporary Craft of Nice Rice Shanghai

In the lively center of Huaihai Road in Shanghai, where Eastern and Western cultures meet, the Nice Rice Shanghai Flagship Store stands as a testament to cultural preservation and modern design. Crafted by the pioneering team at SAY Architects, this flagship store fuses tradition and contemporary aesthetics, offering an experience that transcends mere shopping.

A Sanctuary Rooted in Tradition

The store's design draws inspiration from traditional Chinese architecture, precisely the concept of the siheyuan, a classic Chinese courtyard house. SAY Architects skillfully translated this architectural heritage into a modern context by transforming the store into a "Rice Barn Shelter" that welcomes customers beneath its iconic eaves. The eaves, often called the "fifth elevation" in Chinese architecture, create an inviting sanctuary that offers a balance of openness and intimacy. The double-sloped roofs mirror traditional structures, yet their contemporary interpretation makes them relevant to today's retail landscape.

The choice of interior design is more than just cosmetic. It reflects the purpose of an Oriental Rice Warehouse, historically used for storing Rice. This symbolizes sustenance, inclusivity, and generosity. SAY Architects expanded on this concept by creating a "Rice Barn Shelter," a welcoming and inclusive space beneath the eaves that represents the harmonious coexistence of diverse cultural elements. This design respects the past and contributes to the sustainable cultural expression that SAY aims to incorporate alongside the sustainable use of materials.

Modern Retail: Blending Fashion, Tradition, and Culture

Nice Rice is more than just a retail brand; it represents a lifestyle concept that combines fashion, culture, and gastronomy. The flagship store in Shanghai showcases a "fashion + coffee" dual-business model, targeting younger demographics who seek a comprehensive retail experience. The simple and versatile clothing reflects the brand's philosophy of "harmony in diversity," subtly echoing Eastern cultural values.

The store's original architecture includes a wide horizontal beam that visually separates the space. This element was further emphasized by incorporating the traditional roof style of a siheyuan into the design. The roofline appears extended through cohesive colours and a minimalist yet innovative design, creating a captivating visual effect. Inside, intricate decorations have been removed to allow for more freedom of movement. Lacquer art installations punctuate the minimalist space, giving it a timeless quality.

An Inclusive Design for Urban Explorers

The dual-purpose design of Nice Rice includes a coffee shop and fashion retail, creating a modern and open public space. The store's recessed entrance and spacious outdoor area invite people passing by to interact with the space, making it a communal hub. The seamless flow between the inside and outside encourages visitors to pause, stay, and fully experience the cultural environment. The open and accessible entrance defines the store's identity and aligns with SAY Architects' vision for cultural sustainability through spatial design.

The overarching layout is designed to foster interaction. SAY Architects aimed to extend the functionality of the traditional courtyard beyond its historical limitations, highlighting how adaptable traditional elements can seamlessly integrate with modern fashion sensibilities. This architectural philosophy resonates deeply with the young urban consumer, blending cultural recognition with the ease of modernity.

Tradition Reborn for a New Generation

Through the extension and reinterpretation of traditional design elements, SAY Architects breathes new life into cultural heritage at the Nice Rice Shanghai Flagship Store. It serves not only as a retail space but also as a cultural touchstone, where the spirit of design is rejuvenated in a fresh and relevant manner. The balance of traditional charm and fashion-forward sensibility fosters emotional connections with Shanghai's youth, whose cultural recognition and engagement are keys to Nice Rice's success.

By promoting a harmonious blend of Eastern culture in a modern urban environment, Nice Rice creates a rich narrative for both the present and the future—a story that carries the weight of tradition yet speaks the language of contemporary design​.

For more information, please visit: www.sayarchitects.cn
*This project is one of the shortlisted project in the Sky Design Awards 2024 - Interior Design: Retail Design Division

Kris Lin International Design Crafts a Riverside Cultural Landmark in Ningbo

Located in the bustling core of Ningbo, this ambitious project by Kris Lin International Design aims to redefine the city's riverside landscape. Situated within the WenChuang Port, the space is intended to serve as a world-class cultural and creative hub, blending the vibrancy of Ningbo's modern ethos with its historical essence. The first floor is a dynamic display area for the city's burgeoning trendy culture scene. In contrast, the second floor is dedicated to art exhibitions and a riverside café, providing a seamless fusion of cultural presentation and leisurely relaxation.

Originality and Creativity

The building's design is inspired by the Yong River, with fluid lines and sculptural forms shaping the space. The dynamic exterior lines capture movement and inject vitality into the building's silhouette. This organic design blurs the boundary between the built environment and nature, creating a social hub where relaxation meets creative energy.

Exterior Vision

The project's exterior design seamlessly combines natural elements with modern aesthetics. The building's sweeping curves and fluid lines evoke the river's gentle flow, ensuring that the structure blends in with its surrounding environment. The interior continues this artistic theme, featuring pop culture artifacts such as BE@RBRICK bears and KAWS figures. These playful additions transform the space into a cultural playground, catching the eye and sparking conversation while offering a unique mix of art and architecture that reflects contemporary urban culture.

Constructibility

"Designed with flexibility and functionality in mind, the project is prepared for the changing needs of city life. It includes adaptable spaces that easily switch between exhibition areas and leisure zones. Using modular and prefabricated components ensures precision and efficiency, improving build quality while controlling costs. This modular approach is a practical response to the fast-paced demands of modern construction, all while preserving design integrity."

Commercial Value

By incorporating globally recognized pop culture icons such as BE@RBRICK and KAWS, the venue goes beyond traditional cultural spaces and creates an immersive environment that attracts tourists and locals. This clever integration of trendy culture into the architectural design enhances the project's appeal, providing a unique cultural experience that combines art, leisure, and commerce. It is expected to attract many visitors and strengthen Ningbo's reputation as a forward-thinking, culturally rich destination.

Sustainability

"Sustainability is at the core of this project's values. The development is designed to serve as a flexible cultural center while minimizing its environmental impact. The project demonstrates its dedication to sustainable urban development through eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient technologies. Additionally, it promotes cultural involvement and environmental awareness, fostering economic sustainability for the community and maintaining a harmonious relationship between the built environment and nature."

In every way, this project by Kris Lin International Design is a testament to how architecture can shape cultural identity. It provides a space where art, community, and nature blend seamlessl

For more information, please visit: www.klid.com.cn

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

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Designer Profile

Kris Lin

Kris Lin

Kris Lin, a graduate of the Department of Architecture at Feng Chia University in Taiwan, also earned a Master's degree in Construction Management from CNAM in France. In 2001, he founded Shanghai Daguan Architectural Design Co., Ltd., becoming one of the few design institutions in China capable of integrating "architecture," "interior," "landscape," and "soft decoration design and engineering" into a unified service.

With 23 years of deep cultivation in the design field, he adheres to the design philosophy of "The achiever innovates, observing with principle" and has always insisted on personally leading the creative planning and design of high-end real estate projects. He has achieved numerous accolades in international professional design competitions, and as of December 2023, Shanghai Daguan Architectural Design Co., Ltd. has accumulated a total of 1,515 global awards.