Boku Mikhuna Wasi Ukhupi hinallataq Upyana Wasi Ukhu Wakichiy by Takahiro Todoroki

Boku Mikhuna Wasi Ukhupi hinallataq Upyana Wasi Ukhu Wakichiy by Takahiro Todoroki is a highly esteemed winner of the very prestigious 2026 A' Design Award Qullqi Premiu in Ukupi Kamay Competition Category.

QullqiUkupi· 2026

Boku Mikhuna Wasi Ukhupi hinallataq Upyana Wasi Ukhu Wakichiy

by Takahiro Todoroki

Client: Engine,inc

A' Design Award Qullqi Premiu Winner in Ukupi Category

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Colors

The Design

About Boku Mikhuna Wasi Ukhupi hinallataq Upyana Wasi Ukhu Wakichiy

Boku nisqaqa huk mikhuna wasi hinallataq upyana wasi ukhu wakichiymi Guadalajara, Mexico llaqtapi. Kay wakichiyqa Japón suyupa espacio kamachiykunata kikin llaqta kawsaywan tinkuchin, hinaspa Osaka llaqtapa ñan mikhunanmanta hamutasqa kachkan, takoyaki nisqawan chawpi yuyay hina. Huk q'iwisqa hamp'ara runakunapa tinkunakuyninta kallpanchan, hinallataq pirqa llamk'apusqakunaqa llamiy sumaqchayta yapan. Warkusqa bambú k'anchaykunawan hinallataq pachamamamanta hamuq imakunawanqa huk kawsayniyuq muyupachata paqarichin. Huk mezzanine nisqaqa hanaq techo hatun kayninta allinta llamk'achin hinaspa aswan ruwana t'aqakunata yapan. Kay wasiqa p'unchawpi mikhunata qun, tutataq upyana wasiman hinallataq raymikunapa kanchanman tukun.

The Recognition

About the A' Design Award Qullqi Premiu

Boku Mikhuna Wasi Ukhupi hinallataq Upyana Wasi Ukhu Wakichiy A' Design Award Qullqi Premiu mishak kan, ancha jatun yupaychay, kayta hanak, sumak shinallatak mancharina diseñukunaman kun. Qullqi mishak kashkakunaka ancha achikyaska shinallatak ancha mushuk ruraykunami, paykunata rurakkunapak yachayta, yuyayta shinallatak ushayta rikuchinku. Boku Mikhuna Wasi Ukhupi hinallataq Upyana Wasi Ukhu Wakichiy ruray yachak, ñawpak shinallatak mushuk yuyayta charik sumak rurashka kanata munanku. Kay Qullqi Premiu japishka diseñuka ancha riksishka shinallatak yupaychashka yuyay kan, arti, siensia, diseñu shinallatak tekinolojía ñawpak ñankunata kichuk. Boku Mikhuna Wasi Ukhupi hinallataq Upyana Wasi Ukhu Wakichiy achka runakunapak munashka rurashka kan, munayta kallarichin, alli yuyaykunata kun shinallatak mancharichin.

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