History Meets Innovation: Dayi Design’s Vision for Preserving the Past in a Modern Era

The "History is the Future" project by Dayi Design is located at 777 Huashan Road in Jiangyin City, Jiangsu Province. It is an exceptional example of integrating cultural preservation with modern innovation. Completed in May 2022 for Jinlu Tobacco and Wine, this 450-square-meter space reimagines the former site of Liu Yong University, revitalizing a historical setting while boldly embracing the future.

The design of the 'History is the Future' project by Dayi Design is a testament to our innovative use of materials. The design team have carefully selected a mix of materials, including glass steel grating, stainless steel, acrylic, and glass, to embody our philosophy of blending the past and future. The original wooden doors, preserved from the original structure and encased in acrylic panels, symbolize this fusion. The contrast between the modern acrylic and the warmth of the wood creates a visually compelling story that pays homage to tradition while embracing innovation. The salvaged doors, now a transparent screen, bring a sense of historical depth to the space, while the acrylic adds a futuristic, otherworldly touch.

The project includes modern technological elements like laser lights and digital projections. Rather than following the typical cyberpunk theme of destruction, Dayi Design uses these elements to create a sense of optimism and vitality. This is especially important in a post-pandemic world, where spaces should inspire hope and reflect better expectations for the future.

Natural light is also vital to the design. Strategically placed skylights fill the space with sunlight, highlighting the delicate balance between modernity and nature. The interaction of light, materials, and technology creates a harmonious, fluid environment where the past and future coexist.

Dayi Design's thoughtful reuse of materials in the 'History is the Future' project demonstrates a sustainable approach to architectural practice. By salvaging the original doors, the design not only preserves the site's memory but also aligns with environmentally conscious principles, ensuring that the space remains adaptable for the future. The combination of materials such as acrylic, stainless steel, and glass further enhances the adaptability and longevity of the design, providing reassurance about its long-term sustainability.

By creatively reinterpreting traditional Chinese architectural forms using modern materials and incorporating futuristic lighting elements, "History is the Future" boldly describes the merging of heritage and progress. It demonstrates Dayi Design's ability to create spaces that honour the past while anticipating the future's changing needs.

Commissioned for Jinlu Tobacco and Wine, 'History is the Future' embodies a forward-thinking approach to time and design. Cultural heritage and modern aesthetics intersect to create a unique, functional, and evocative space. This project showcases how architecture can transcend time constraints, crafting spaces that resonate with historical significance and contemporary relevance, inspiring all who experience it with its timeless design.

Chief Designer: Zhou Yi, Chang Jingliang

Project Name: History is the future

Location: 777 Huashan Road, Jiangyin City, Jiangsu Province

Design Company: Dayi Design

Chief Designer: Zhou Yi, Chang Jingliang

Assistant Designer: Chen Shiyi, Guo Zihao, Meng Linghui

Area: 450㎡

Completion time: May 2022

Main Materials: Glass steel grating, stainless steel, acrylic, glass

Client Name: Jinlu Tobacco and Wine

Photographer: ingallery- the jungle

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

Sora-kan: A Harmonious Blend of Nature and Artistry in the Heart of Beppu designed by MITSUI Designtec Co.,Ltd.

Located in the heart of Beppu's stunning landscape, where lush mountains meet the expansive seas, the newly unveiled Suginoi Hotel Sora-kan, designed by MITSUI Designtec Co., Ltd., sets a new standard for hospitality. As the flagship of the rejuvenated Suginoi Hotel, Sora-kan seamlessly blends contemporary design with Beppu's cultural and natural richness, creating an immersive experience that appeals to both first-time and seasoned travellers.

The design is centred around the 'Fugetsu' concept, which pays homage to the natural elements of Beppu - wind, moon, and nature's bounty. The facade visually embodies this concept with dynamic louvres arranged in rhythmic patterns, representing the gentle breezes of the region. These louvres serve an aesthetic purpose and function as a passive environmental control, reducing solar heat and maintaining a relaxed, comfortable interior environment throughout the year. This architectural element symbolizes the delicate balance between human-made structures and the natural environment.

As guests enter, they are immediately greeted by the artwork of master artisan Naoki Kusumi. Kusumi's expansive plaster art captures the essence of Beppu's winds in a fluid, organic form. This bold gesture sets the tone for the lobby, where art and architecture come together to guide guests through the space. The tactile quality of Kusumi's plaster work, with its intricate textures, invites closer inspection, while its sweeping curves create a dynamic sense of movement that mirrors the natural forces outside.

The design integrates locally sourced materials to connect with nature. Beppu stone, a symbol of the region's volcanic heritage, is used in both the exterior and interior, grounding the hotel in its surroundings. Additionally, bamboo crafts, Onta-yaki pottery, and Beppu shibori textiles are incorporated into the decor, providing a tactile narrative that connects guests to the craftsmanship of local artisans. These design choices reflect Beppu's cultural identity and promote the sustainability of traditional crafts, adding depth to the hotel's aesthetic.

The lobby is a masterpiece of spatial choreography. Pendant lights that resemble delicate soap bubbles hover above, casting soft, playful shadows. These subtle nods to natural elements evoke a sense of lightness and serenity. In contrast, the restaurant on the ground floor presents a bolder statement with its deep blue-tiled floors, echoing the vastness of Beppu Bay. This dramatic colour palette is balanced by panoramic windows that offer sweeping views of the bay, inviting the outside world into the dining experience. Every detail in the design speaks to a deliberate interaction between the built environment and the natural world."

The most remarkable feature of Sora-kan is its top-floor infinity spa, which is situated 50 meters above ground level. Here, guests can enjoy an uninterrupted view of Beppu Bay that changes with the light and weather, providing a unique experience with each visit. The spa's minimalist design is intended to keep the focus on the natural beauty of the surroundings, creating a peaceful space where guests can fully immerse themselves in the tranquillity of the region's famous hot springs. The spa is not just a place to relax but a physical representation of the 'Fugetsu' concept, where the sea, sky, and mountains blend seamlessly.

The guest rooms provide an immersive experience with three distinct design themes: 'Aoumi' (Blue Sea), 'Shinrin' (Forest), and 'Yunagi' (Evening Calm), each reflecting a different aspect of Beppu's natural landscape. Full-height windows in every room enhance the connection to nature, allowing natural light to flood the interiors and framing views of the surrounding landscape. The room designs are not just a backdrop but an integral part of the guest experience, encouraging a more profound sense of relaxation and reflection. With suites designed to cater to various preferences, Sora-kan invites repeat visits by offering guests a fresh perspective with every stay.

"Beyond its interiors, the hotel's outdoor spaces have been meticulously crafted to engage guests of all ages. The Soraniwagarden is not merely decorative but a space for exploration and interaction. Children can enjoy the playful Fuwafuwa-Dome trampoline while photo spots featuring oversized sculptures of local specialties, such as shiitake mushrooms, kabosu citrus, and Asagimadara butterflies, offer whimsical moments of discovery. These installations, which blend art with regional identity, celebrate Beppu's cultural heritage and deep connection to nature.

Suginoi Hotel Sora-kan is more than just a place to stay—it's a destination, offering a curated experience where design, nature, and local culture converge. The hotel's thoughtful integration of Beppu's natural and cultural elements into its architecture and design creates an environment where guests are surrounded by beauty and encouraged to engage with it on a deeper level. Whether relaxing in the infinity spa, enjoying locally inspired cuisine, or exploring the artful installations, guests are continually invited to discover the richness of Beppu in a modern and timeless way."

With its unparalleled attention to detail and commitment to promoting the local culture and environment, Sora-kan is set to become a must-visit destination for discerning travellers seeking an authentic, luxurious, and enriching experience in Japan's onsen capital.

For more information, please visit: https://www.mitsui-designtec.co.jp
*This project is one of the shortlisted project in the Sky Design Awards 2024 - Interior Design: Hotel & Resorts Division

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