Saga Hirakawaya Tofu Takeo Onsen by Keiji Ashizawa Design
Saga Hirakawaya Tofu Takeo Onsen is a unique combination of restaurant and shop, located in front of the historical tower gate of Takeo Onsen, a long-established hot spring resort in Saga, Japan. Designed by Keiji Ashizawa Design in 2022, this cozy real estate offers an atmosphere like no other.
It features a wooden house structure with a gently arched exterior, a foot bath with hot spring water in the courtyard, a retail store that promotes the tofu culture and a restaurant. The light in the interior space is dynamic, featuring washi shades crafted by Nao Washi, a Saga-based Japanese paper manufacturer, and all furniture is made by Ariake, a brand that produces in Morodomi, Saga Prefecture.
About Saga Hirakawaya Tofu Takeo Onsen
Revitalizing the Local Area: Saga Hirakawaya Flagship Store
Situated in front of the historical tower gate of Takeo Onsen, a long-established hot spring resort in Saga prefecture, the flagship store of Saga Hirakawaya is a shop and restaurant with a mission to contribute to the revitalization of the local area. The building, designed to appear as a wooden house structure with a gently arched exterior, creates a unified environment, an open and rich space with a courtyard and foot bath with hot spring water.
Interior Design with Careful Consideration
The interior of Saga Hirakawaya comprises a retail store that promotes the tofu culture and a cozy restaurant. The two spaces are connected by the gentle curvatures of the volumes, along with an open atrium. Natural light from the windows that open to view the gate create a dynamic atmosphere, with a beautiful gradation of light on the soft curves of the ceiling and walls. The custom-made pendant lamps above the tables use washi shades crafted by a local Japanese paper manufacturer, promoting a soft illumination of the tofu pots and reflecting light into the domed ceiling. All of the furniture is made by a local brand, emphasizing the store’s commitment to the local area.
Lingering Appeal of a Unique Space
The Saga Hirakawaya flagship store is an inviting destination, encouraging visitors to linger and enjoy the unique atmosphere. The foot bath with hot spring water located in the courtyard and carefully designed interior, complete with custom-made lamps and locally sourced furniture, create an inviting space to relax and enjoy the ambience. With its mission to contribute to the revitalization of the local area, Saga Hirakawaya is an inspiring example of a business that puts local community at the heart of its concept.
Photography by Ben Richards
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- by Matt Watts
