takato tamagami: cafe aura

‘cafe aura’ by takato tamagami, karuizawa, japan all images courtesy of takato tamagami

overlooking the distant japanese southern alps and yatsugatake mountains, the ‘cafe aura’ by takato tamagami is glass-enclosed to open panoramic vistas in karuizawa, japan. standing 1,200 meters above sea level, a long platform offers views towards the town of karuizawa. adjusting to the natural undulation of the hilltop, the floor levels descend within the bent footprint, forming an obtuse angle to frame a garden. windows maintain a connection between the indoor dining area and events occurring outside including concerts and candle lit nights with a dramatic backdrop.

veranda

glazed facade

entry

elevated interior is accessed by an outdoor stair

entry

stairway

corridors

dining area

views overlooking the distant japanese southern alps and yatsugatake mountains

cafe

outdoor terrace

dining area at night

entry illuminated at night

at night