Boku Taobh a-staigh Taigh-bìdh agus Bàr by Takahiro Todoroki

Boku Taobh a-staigh Taigh-bìdh agus Bàr by Takahiro Todoroki is a highly esteemed winner of the very prestigious 2026 Duais Airgid A' Design Award in Dealbhadh Àiteachan Taobh a-staigh agus Taisbeanaidh Competition Category.

AirgeadTaobh a-staigh· 2026

Boku Taobh a-staigh Taigh-bìdh agus Bàr

by Takahiro Todoroki

Client: Engine,inc

Duais Airgid A' Design Award Winner in Taobh a-staigh Category

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The Design

About Boku Taobh a-staigh Taigh-bìdh agus Bàr

'S e taobh a-staigh taigh-bìdh agus bàr ann an Guadalajara, Meagsago a th' ann am Boku. Tha an dealbhadh a' cothlamadh phrionnsabalan spàsail Iapanach ri cultar ionadail agus tha e air a bhrosnachadh le biadh sràide Osaka, le takoyaki mar phrìomh chuspair. Tha cuntair lùbte a' brosnachadh eadar-obrachadh sòisealta, agus tha inneach nam ballachan a' cur mion-fhiosrachadh beantainneach ris. Tha solais bambù crochte agus stuthan nàdarra a' cruthachadh àile organach. Tha meadhan-lobhta a' dèanamh feum den mhullach àrd agus a' cur iomadachd ghnìomhach ris. Bidh an t-ionad a' frithealadh bìdh tron latha agus a' fàs na bhàr agus na àite thachartasan air an oidhche.

The Recognition

About the Duais Airgid A' Design Award

Tha Boku Taobh a-staigh Taigh-bìdh agus Bàr air Duais Airgid A' Design Award a bhuannachadh, aithneachadh gu math urramach a bheirear do dhealbhaidhean den chiad ìre, àlainn agus drùidhteach. Tha buannaichean Airgid nan obraichean anabarrach boillsgeach agus gu math cruthachail a nochdas sàr-eòlas, tàlant agus geurchuis an luchd-dealbhaidh. Thathar an dùil gum bi Boku Taobh a-staigh Taigh-bìdh agus Bàr na obair mhìorbhaileach, na sàr-eisimpleir a tha gu sònraichte proifeiseanta agus gu domhainn ùr-ghnàthach. Tha an dealbhadh seo a bhuannaich Duais Airgid A' Design Award na innleachd glè fhaicsinneach, ion-mholta a bhrosnaicheas crìochan ealain, saidheans, dealbhaidh agus teicneolais. Tha Boku Taobh a-staigh Taigh-bìdh agus Bàr na chruthachadh air a bheil mòran eud, a dhùisgeas miannan, a bheir faireachdainnean math agus a thogas iongnadh is miorbhail.

Behind the Design

Press Kit

Credits, team members and technical details provided by the designer.

Unique Properties: This project merges Japanese spatial philosophy with the local culture of Mexico, avoiding superficial Japanese style design. Inspired by Osaka street food culture, the space centers on takoyaki and reinterprets the vitality of octopus as a spatial language. A curved counter evokes tentacles, encouraging social interaction, while wall textures recall suction cups. Suspended bamboo lighting and natural materials create an organic atmosphere. A mezzanine utilizes the high ceiling, adding vertical depth and functional diversity.
Dimensions & Packaging: Total area: 128 sqm. Ceiling height: 4500 mm. Structure: steel frame. Materials: bamboo, mortar cement, brick, steel, washi, resin, sumi ink, LED neon. Ceiling: brick finish with clear coating. Floor: pigmented mortar with urethane coating. Walls: brick and painted surfaces with artwork. Lighting: 50 lux ambient, 100 lux table, 2700K. Features include sound system with subwoofer, DJ booth, and integrated lighting installations.
Tags: Bar, Mexico, Japanese, Restaurant, Takoyaki, Tequila, Bamboo, Sake, Guadarajara,
Production Technology: The design process translated traditional Takeakari into a modular ceiling system using parametric modeling and digital fabrication. Bamboo elements were lasercut based on 3D data due to limited local craftsmanship. Detailed drawings were developed to adapt complex geometries to local construction skills. The counter was formed using mortar and cement with curved surfaces requiring precise manual finishing. A mezzanine structure resolves the narrow plan by layering functions vertically. Circulation and visibility were optimized through curved layouts and open kitchen placement.
Design Challenge: The main challenge was bridging the gap between complex design intent and local construction capabilities. Many contractors declined due to the level of detail, and initial cost estimates exceeded the budget. This was resolved by simplifying construction systems and clearly communicating design logic through detailed drawings. Inconsistent schedules and craftsmanship required multiple adjustments and rework. Maintaining design quality under these constraints demanded continuous on-site coordination and adaptive problem-solving throughout the project.
Research: This is an applied spatial design research. The objective was to reinterpret Japanese identity in Mexico without cliches while ensuring functional performance. The methodology combined cultural analysis, spatial planning, material testing, and onsite coordination over 3 months design and 5 months construction. Data were collected through site constraints, user flow studies, and mock ups using drawings, 3D modeling, lighting tests, and material comparisons. Experiments included bamboo lighting and steel hand lights. The result improved user stay time, SNS engagement, and cross cultural business value.
Inspiration: The project was inspired by the fusion of Japanese highball culture and takoyaki, aiming to redefine Japanese identity outside Japan. Instead of stereotypical expressions, it integrates subtle cultural elements such as bamboo lighting, ranma lattice, and sumie art. Influenced by Osaka vibrant street stalls, the design reflects warmth, energy, and informality. Traditional Japanese spatial techniques are reinterpreted through contemporary materials and composition, creating a modern space that quietly embodies the essence of Wa within a global context.
Project Duration: This project began its design phase in Japan in 2024 and opened in Guadalajara, Mexico, in August 2025.
Operation Flow: The space operates as a restaurant during the day and transforms into a bar and event venue at night. It supports a wide range of users, from individuals to large groups. The open kitchen creates a lively atmosphere where guests can experience the cooking process. The takoyaki grill is placed near the entrance to attract attention and introduce the cuisine. The curved counter allows natural communication between guests, enhancing social interaction and making the space intuitive and engaging.
Image Credits: Photographer : Katsumi Hirabayashi