Japan / Tag

Kanemitsusyuzo: Preserving Sake Brewing Tradition in Hiroshima

A modern, minimalist-style Japanese building with an arched entrance and large windows overlooking a courtyard.

Fathom‘s renovation of the Kanemitsusyuzo sake brewery in Hiroshima, Japan, beautifully blends tradition and modernity. This 2021 project breathes new life into the 123-year-old brewery, preserving its historic architecture while introducing contemporary design elements.

From the interplay of materials like burnt cedar, plaster, and red brick to the organic R-line that expresses the vibrancy of the brewing process, this sake tasting room and retail space pays homage to the brewery’s rich heritage while welcoming a new generation of visitors.

T House: Upcycled Oyster Shell Paint Transforms Apartment

A modern, open-concept living space with a curved sofa, wood accents, and natural lighting.

Designed by renowned architecture firm Fathom, the T House in Hiroshina, Japan, offers a refreshing approach to modern apartment living. This 2024 renovation project transformed a newly built condominium, embracing upcycled materials and lush greenery to create a harmonious, personalized space.

Departing from mass-produced furnishings, the design integrates oyster shell paint, custom wood treatments, and strategically placed flora, blending the indoor and outdoor environments for a uniquely immersive experience.

Enowa Yufuin: Elevated Botanical Retreat in Oita Prefecture

FeaturedCaptivating modern architecture nestled in lush, verdant hills with a cascading waterfall.

Discover the serene beauty of “Enowa Yufuin,” a luxurious resort nestled in the picturesque hot-spring district of Yufuin, Japan. Designed by acclaimed architect Kuru, this 44,000-square-meter haven offers guests a botanical retreat, seamlessly blending with the majestic Mt. Yufu and the tranquil Yufu townscape. Featuring ten villas, a restaurant, and a hotel complex, the property’s “primitive luxury” design showcases the innate richness of natural materials, creating an atmosphere that reconnects visitors with the power of nature.

House in Muko: Redefining Japanese Residential Design in Kyoto

A modern architectural design with a central courtyard and glass walls overlooking a lush garden.

Tomohiro Hata Architect & Associates have unveiled a captivating new residential project in the heart of Kyoto, Japan. The “House in Muko” blends traditional farmhouse aesthetics with modern living, creating a harmonious balance between the past and present. Situated amidst the lush farmlands and bamboo forests of Muko City, this 2023 design showcases a thoughtful approach to preserving the region’s historical architectural elements while embracing contemporary living standards.

Tokyo Blue Apartment: Innovative Minimalist Design in Tokyo

Eclectic home office with concrete walls, natural wood, and vibrant house plants.

The Tokyo Blue Apartment, a captivating renovation project in the heart of Japan’s capital, showcases the harmonious blend of modern design and the owners’ unique personalities. Designed by Roovice in 2021, this 3LDK apartment transformation in Takaido, Tokyo, embodies a striking aesthetic that maximizes the space’s potential with the owners’ love for the color blue as the guiding force.

Himawari Nursery School: Creating a Warm, Child-Friendly Atmosphere

A modern outdoor play area with wooden structures, greenery, and a tent for children.

Akaike Tohyama ArchitectsHimawari Nursery School in Tokyo, Japan, is a captivating new addition to the city’s architectural landscape. Designed in 2022, this one-story wooden structure was created to foster interaction and experiences among children of different ages. By strategically zoning the nursery rooms, hall, and staff areas, the design promotes a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces, transforming the entire site into a vibrant “playground” for the young students.

Rankoshi Observation House: Embracing Hokkaido’s Winter Wonderland

A modern, glass-walled house nestled in a forested landscape, with warm interior lighting.

Designed by the acclaimed Daida Design Studio, the Rankoshi Observation House in Hokkaido, Japan, is a captivating residential project that seamlessly integrates with its stunning natural surroundings. This 2022 house, built for a client who loves winter sports and plants, features a thoughtful layout that includes a garage, ski room, guest quarters, and a cozy main living space.

With extended eaves and decks, a central solarium, and a focus on natural materials, the Rankoshi Observation House creates a harmonious balance between the indoors and the breathtaking vistas of Mount Yotei, Mount Shiribetsu, and the Annupuri range.