Category: Tokyo

200. Louis Vuitton Matsuya Store in Tokyo by Jun Aoki

11/27/2016

Louis Vuitton Matsuya Store in Ginza, Tokyo by Jun Aoki. Photo © Maria Novozhilova

ENG

This gorgeous new building undergoes a dramatic transformation each night when the sun goes down. At dusk, the new Louis Vuitton Matsuya boutique located in Ginza, a popular upscale shopping area of Tokyo, lights up like a giant lantern. Designed by the Japanese architect Jun Aoki, the store features the brand's iconic Damier Canvas pattern with a super-thin skin integrated with hundreds of LED lights.

198. Gigantic blood-red web takes over Gucci in Tokyo

11/3/2016

Me at the Herbarium Room by Chiharu Shiota for Gucci 4 Rooms in Tokyo. Photo © Maria Novozhilova

ENG

Although Gucci seems like a serious luxury brand, it knows when and how to downplay its unapproachable reputation. In an effort to become closer with "terrestrial life," the label created a free art installation inside its Ginza boutique in Tokyo. The Herbarium Room is an eerie work of art curated by Chiharu Shiota comprising a simple room entangled in blood-red yarn.

189. Architectural (and not only) must-see of Tokyo

10/9/2016

THIS SECTION WILL BE UPDATED SOON!

1. SANAA's Dior Omotesando store
and its transparent glass walls, translucent wavy acrylic screens, horizontal white bands and unequal heights.

Where: near Omotesando station

2. Kengo Kuma's Sunny Hills
and its fascinating wooden facade pattern

Where: Omotesando station
3 Chome-10-20 Minamiaoyama, Minato, Tokyo, Japan

187. Japanese sweet potato

10/3/2016

Sweet potato. Japan. Photo © Maria Novozhilova

ENG

Did you know that there are about 5,000 potato varieties worldwide? Besides cultivated ones, there are about 200 wild species. So no worries if you have never heard about this purple skin and butter-colored flesh Japanese sweetpotatoes. Still trying to figure out what is the best way to cook it. Any suggestions?

185. Fifty Manga Chairs by Nendo at Fuorisalone 2016

7/7/2016

Nendo at Fuorisalone 2016 in Milan, Italy. Photo © Maria Novozhilova

ENG

Milan is the capital of design. The most innovative and in-vogue designers come here to launch their most recent works. Milan, however, is also the capital of architecture and classic taste. So what happens when the two meet one another?

171. Omotesando Branches (2015) by Sou Fujimoto

12/18/2015

Omotesando Branches (2015) by Sou Fujimoto. Photo © Maria Novozhilova for Inhabitat.com

ENG

A new tree-shaped structure creating a three-dimensional garden on its façade appeared in the midst of Omotesando area in Tokyo. This new building designed by the Tokyo based firm Sou Fujimoto Architects for Tokyo Ooya Net is a 4 storey multipurpose space including a retail store, office area and a residence. Built on a small site measuring only 162 square meters, “Omotesando Branches” is a tiny yet significant example of contemporary Japanese architecture.

168. "I have an Idea": How Frank Gehry’s provocative designs go from concept to reality

12/8/2015

First volumetric study models of Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo (USA, 2010) by Frank Gehry. Photo © Maria Novozhilova for Inhabitat.com

ENG

If you think that famous Frank O. Gehry’s complex architecture is a result of a mere computer 3D modeling, you are completely wrong! his design process is actually far more involved. Gehry has an idea, and he knows how to develop it - by hand.

Recently displayed at 21_21 Design Site in Tokyo, a surprising exhibition dedicated to the work of the great Canadian-born architect reveals the steps that go into each new project. “I have an idea” is an inspiring story that uncovers the secrets of Gehry’s creativity and illustrates how his intricate imagination manifests step-by-step into real physical forms.

167. 100% made of wood Miyamura Veterinary Clinic in Tokyo by Atelier OPA and Buildinglandscape

11/22/2015

Miyamura Veterinary Clinic, Tokyo, Japan. Photo © Maria Novozhilova for Inhabitat.com

ENG

After a decade of research aimed at reintroducing wood into Japanese urban architecture, the first multi-story building designed entirely with timber materials has finally met Tokyo's strict fire regulations. The 3-level Miyamura Veterinary Clinic, created under the lead of Toshihiko Suzuki from the Tokyo based offices Atelier OPA with Takao Nishizawa from Buildinglandscape, is a combination of a traditional post-and-beam wooden structure and LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber), a cutting-edge material which can resist fire for an entire hour. This exceeds Tokyo's regulations, which require a minimum resistance of 45 minutes.

166. Overflow collection (2012) by Nendo

11/15/2015

Overflow collection (2012) by Nendo. Photo © Maria Novozhilova

ENG

It is all about the method. These unique tables were produced by placing plate glass into a frame with one section missing, and turning the sheet into molten glass by progressively heating it. The molten glass run from the missing section self-designing its unique shape. That simple and that cool! This design is now on show at Gyre Gallery in Omotesando.

165. Ekouin Nenbutsudo Temple in Tokyo by Yutaka Kawahara

11/2/2015

Ekouin Buddhist Temple by Yutaka Kawahara in Tokyo, Japan. Photo © Maria Novozhilova for Inhabitat.com

ENG

A lush stand of bamboo thrives on this beautiful Buddhist temple in Tokyo. An unusual green retreat recently completed by the Yutaka Kawahara architectural office, the Ekouin Nenbutsudo Temple expansion comprises a 3 storey annex measuring less than 500 square meters of total floor area overlaid by bamboo trees growing on its first level.

125. Postcards from Japan

3/23/2015

Tokyo, Japan. Photo © Maria Novozhilova

ENG

This post does not need any comment. All these photos are about the beauty of Japanese cherry blossom. I took them last year during my trip to Tokyo. Badly missing my Japan!

RUS

На мой взгляд этот пост не нуждается в комментарии. Фотографии говорят сами за себя, рассказывая о красоте японской вишни. Вот такую вот красоту у меня была возможность отснять лично прошлой весной во время моей последней поездки в Токио. Ах, Япония, как же я все-таки скучаю по тебе!

116. Dynamic public space: Omiyamae Gymnasium by Jun Aoki

2/16/2015

Omiyamae Gymnasium, Tokyo, Japan. © Jun Aoki and Associates

ENG

This article has been originally published on Domus

In its struggle for diversity, the Omiyamae Gymnasium by Jun Aoki meets successfully the traditional quiet lifestyle of the Suginami neighborhood, the technological modernity of the construction and, finally the need of a civic center of a town on the outskirts of the great Tokyo.

IT

L'articolo originale è stato pubblicato su Domus

Nella sua lotta per la diversità, la palestra progettata da Jun Aoki unisce con successo lo stile di vita tradizionale e quieto del municipio di Suginami, la modernità tecnologica della tecnica costruttiva e infine l’esigenza di dare un centro civico a un centro abitato alla periferia della grande Tokyo.

101. Kenchikukagu by Atelier OPA: the three transformers made in Tokyo

11/3/2014

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ENG

Modern interior mainly consists of two elements. One is architectural elements that divide spaces like partition walls. Another is furniture elements that decide purpose of the room such as facilities and furniture. So far, partition walls and facilities are fixed so that user can’t rearrange a room easily. In short, the interior has low variability. Therefore Atelier OPA designed Kenchikukagu, new product that combines partitions, facilities and furniture. It brings us variability in our living space.

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095. Waseda University's new building n.3

10/11/2014

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ENG

Waseda University (Tokyo) opened the new Building 3 on September 18. Located between the Main Gate and the Okuma statue, it has 14 floors above ground, and recreates the former building on the lower floors.

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070. 1000 & 1 image of Japanese fashion

6/21/2014

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RUS

Современная Япония, одеваясь в классические кимоно либо в безумные кукольные наряды, умело балансирует между старым и новым. Сочетание многовековых традиций и новейших тенденций — это лишь строго отмеренная консервативным обществом последовательность запретов и дозволений. Здесь всему свое время, и у каждого момента — свои песни, у каждого возраста — свои наряды.

Мария Новожилова из Токио, специально для журнала КЛ Ключевые Люди

В Японии все строго. Устоявшиеся правила поведения неизбежны для всех, кто хочет быть частью этого общества. Индивидуализм в Японии мало поощряется. А социальные нормы давят на японцев в буквальном смысле со всех сторон. Так«быть, как все» часто становится... Читать продолжение статьи здесь.

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056. Layers and patterns of 築地市場 [Tsukiji fish market]

5/26/2014

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ENG

Amazing colors, incredible patterns and unbelievable dimensions of seafood goods coming from the fathomless pacific ocean are hidden in the heart of Tokyo. No doubt Tsukiji, the biggest wholesale fish market in the whole world, can surprise with its countless wonders.

Until recent times the entrance was open for anybody. Nowadays more and more restrictions are applied and an unauthorized access is often prohibited. The gossips murmur that soon it will be moved outside of the city.

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053. Fuji Television Headquarters by Kenzo Tange

5/22/2014

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ENG

Porous yet heavy, made-of-frames yet monumental, Fuji Television Headquarters in Odaiba was designed by the Japanese architect and the Pritzker Prize laureate of 1987 Kenzo Tange in 1996. No doubt, the 25-floors-heigh waterfront Fuji TV building with its spherical observation deck (that measures 32 meters in diameter) is one of the architectural landmarks of Tokyo. It’s unique design, it’s pure shapes and it’s glossy façades capture the attention. By @NovozhilovaM

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046. In search for invisibility: Omiyamae Gymnasium by Jun Aoki

5/11/2014

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ENG

The Japanese architect based in Toyo Jun Aoki is famous, above all, with his rather an object-like buildings. Although some of his works explore the theme of ephemerality, however most of them are visually quite striking.

Saying that, his new work just completed in a small town near Tokyo (Suginami district) does search for invisibility. The huge volume of the covered sports hall Omiyamae Gymnasium is hidden. Approaching to the building, one sees only two ellipse-shaped one-floor structures. Lower than the surrounding city, tailored from small private houses, the newcomer does not step out at all. At least not for its architecture.

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045. Tokyo Statue of Liberty

5/8/2014

ENG

Probably nobody knows how many replicas of the Statue of Liberty there are in the world. The original work is located on Liberty Island in the middle of New York Harbor, in Manhattan, New York City. However, her minor sisters (old and relatively new ones) can be found more or less everywhere in the world.

RUS

Возможно, уже никому не удастся подсчитать количество Статуй Свободы в мире: так их много! Все знают, что оригинал украшает Нью-Йоркскую гавань и ее Остров Свободы. И тем не менее её “младших сестёр“ (от античных версий до современных работ) можно встретить повсюду в мире.

044. 3000 Azalea trees of Nezu Shrine

5/7/2014

ENG

Season has changed. And everything has changed.

All attention at Nezu Shrine in Tokyo (previously featured here) completely shifted from the Red Torii Path toward the blooming hill of Azalea oval bushes. The ocean of summer colors has totally eclipsed the beauty of the Shinto architecture. 3000 azalea trees blush in the endless grades of white, pink, red, purple colors. Amazing beauty of the new scenario was difficult to forecast. Yet, the miracle occurs here every year. By @NovozhilovaM

RUS

Время года поменялось. И все поменялось.

В токийском Незу Шрайне (раннее опублокованным здесь) все внимание переключилось с дорожки вычерченной краснымы воротами Тории на холм застланный цветыщими кустами Азалий. Океан летних цветов полностью затмил красоту и уникальность синто-архитектуры. Здесь 3000 азалий окрасились бесконечными оттенками белых, красных и фиолетовых цветов. Еще совсем недавно, смотря на зеленые кусты, было сложно представить красоту будущего пейзажа. Хотя чудо здесь неизбежно происходит каждый год. Автор @NovozhilovaM

040. Asakusa Tourist Information Center by Kengo Kuma

4/26/2014

ENG

In the corner premise of just 326㎡ across Kaminari-mon Gate, the building was required to accommodate plural programs such as tourist information center, conference room, multi-purpose hall and an exhibition space.

039. Dressed up Gods of Japan

4/25/2014

ENG

Japanese people believe in a magic power of red color. It is said that it expels demons and illness. A tradition to dress up Shinto and Buddhist deities into red cloths helps, according to the Japanese folk, to protect the deceased child in the afterlife. Sometimes it represents the gifts of a rejoicing parent whose child has been cured of dangerous sickness thanks to god's intervention. The rite is performed even nowadays. The ancient believe is still in force. The modern Japan is not that modern afer all. By @NovozhilovaM

RUS

Японцы верят в магическую силу красного цвета. Считается, что он отгоняет нечистую силу и защищает от недугов. А традиция наряжать синтоистских и буддийских богов в красные одежды - это народное поверье о том как помочь заболевшемy ребенку. Часто красные шапочки и фартучки - ни что иное как благодарность родителей за выздоровившее чадо. Но иногда, это и молитва о защите души ребенка в загробном мире. В силу древнего обряда верят и сегодня. Удивительно, но прогрессивная Япония и по сей день полна старомодной веры. Автор @NovozhilovaM

037. The blooming peonies of Yakuoin Temple

4/22/2014

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ENG

The cherry blossom is over and spring is coming to its end. Yet, the next season is about to start. Summer is at the door, and the nature is changing its tender pinkish cherry tint into brilliant colors of green.

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036. New soft-hard Zinc House by Terunobu Fujimori

4/21/2014

Zinc façade finish. Image copyright Maria Novozhilova

ENG

The last weekend a new private house designed by an exceptional Japanese architect Terunobu Fujimori was opened. The new building is located in a small provincial town near to Tokyo. Neighboring with typical Japanese one-family residential architecture, the newcomer comes to the fore. Different, shiny and apparently soft metallic façade catches the visitor’s eye.

035. The last days of Nakagin Capsule Tower by Kisho Kurokawa

4/20/2014

ENG

Tokyo is an ever-changing city. Perhaps the most emblematic example of non-preservation of architecture in Japan is the case of Nakagin Capsule Tower designed by Kisho Kurokawa in 1972. The building is one of the few examples realized in accord with the metabolist way of thinking. It is scheduled for demolition.