Interviews with Ryuji Kojo, Toshihiro Obata

Our design principle is to derive mental experiences from physical experiences. Specifically, this includes:

・Experiences of visitors or users

・Movements and scale of the human body

・Relationship between the human body and materials

・Perception of spatial scale

・Aura emitted by the forms

We particularly focused on the physical experience of the guests in our design. In a space of just about 23 square meters, we have created a unique spatial and dining experience. To achieve this, we have planned pathways from the entrance towards the seating area where guests change their orientation several times before heading towards their seats, with the head chef welcoming them directly from the front. Additionally, we have meticulously manipulated the heights of various elements. Furthermore, we have focused on the materials used, including handmade Japanese paper (washi) that we specifically crafted for this project.

We plan to design new seating areas on the second floor in the future.

After numerous iterations and studies, we spent approximately six months designing it.

As it's a personal establishment, we unraveled the chef's artisanal demeanor and personality within the context of the design. We prioritized inspiration drawn from sushi, preserving its essence while infusing the space with a narrative-driven concept.

It has not been produced or used by other companies, and there are no plans to sell or lease the production rights.

We have designed several sushi restaurants in the past, and that experience has been leveraged in this project.

The classical Japanese aesthetic influences us. For example, designers like Jo Nagasaka of Schemata Architects and Shinichiro Ogata of SIMPLICITY.

Customers involved in commercial design. Ordinary people.

・Emphasis on experiential design within the space

・Attention to detail in materials

・Narrative quality of the space

The restaurant is named after the head chef.

We use 3D CAD, Photoshop, and Illustrator.

・Material composition

・Manipulation of scale

・Reinterpretation of Japanese design and composition

Woodworker: Wataru Sakai

Calligrapher: Mikiko Kayama

Graphic Designer: Natsuko Saka / TSUTO

Washi: Takaharu Maeda / Kamisukishikoushitsu

The use of NC router to enhance the appeal of wood through processing. Unlike conventional methods, we perform wood processing that resembles the production of products.

We decided to apply with the aim of widely promoting spaces that combine Japanese design with modern technology and acquiring new clients. At the same time, we want to create social value for our firm.

We were able to reaffirm the core of the designs our firm undertakes. Particularly, we learned a lot about emphasizing the aspects of physical space that humans experience firsthand.

I have been interested in design since I started studying architecture at the age of 15, and it was around that time that I became aware of my desire to become a designer. My interest in architecture was sparked when my family built a new house during my childhood. I remember being deeply fascinated by the craftsmanship of the carpenters.

A design firm founded in 2019 by a duo of architects. They discover the spark for their designs from a unique perspective that has yet to be seen in the world, and while immediately addressing challenges together, they produce designs that one person alone couldn't achieve.

Creating an atmosphere.

Creating an atmosphere in a space.

The Bruder Klaus Field Chapel, designed by Peter Zumthor. It possesses a remarkable charm with its communal aspect, as local farmers played a central role in its construction, alongside its striking architectural form. One can feel the shimmer of nature within its serene atmosphere, and the seamless integration of the building and its surroundings is truly moving.

We value natural materials very highly, such as wood, stone, and paper.

When a design that responds to the environment is completed, and you experience it.

・The movement and scale of the human body

・The relationship between the human body and materials

・Sensory scale of space

・The intangible essence emitted by the architectural form

Quietly, the heart is calm.

Repeating the study.

There are various design methodologies, but in the realm of space, the ability to experience their allure is paramount. It's essential to consider the sustainability and longevity of each design.

Creating something modern has become saturated. In new architectural approaches, the significance and meaning inherent in the very form and structure of buildings and edifices are deemed crucial. Specifically, the emphasis is shifting towards buildings' designs and shapes carrying symbolic meanings and purposes beyond mere aesthetics.

I believe that the future lies in designs that, while possessing uniqueness, seamlessly blend into their surroundings on a scale closer to the individual, rather than just considering environmental or societal aspects.

We live in the city of Fukuoka, Japan.

We are particularly influenced by Japan's cultural heritage.

A strength of designing in this country is the acceptance of spaces with "Ma" (間 / margin). A weakness is that the mentality of scrap-and-build still lingers.

First, We visit the site and listen to the client's needs. These processes are particularly crucial for discovering what is truly necessary. Afterward, We move on to studies using sketches, models, and other tools to further refine the design.

・SPADE CHAIR / Faye Toogood

・KABUTO CHAIR / Isamu Kenmochi

・AKARI / Isamu Noguchi

・Light Capsule / Peter Ivy

・cutlery / Jasper Morrison

Interacting with many objects and people.

Intuition

We are utilizing Google.

How do you think about space?

Sushi Koji

GC Corporation, Ryokan Yoshidaya, Potama Co. Ltd.

design with a live atmosphere.

It depends on the project, but in many cases, We design it ourself.

Yes, there are several. Many projects are currently underway, and We look forward to unveiling exciting new things.

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