atelier KUU brings mountain tranquility to salon in kobe

atelier KUU brings mountain tranquility to salon in kobeall images courtesy of atelier KUU

far from the bustling city of kobe, japan, birds chirp and streams babble in the verdant mountains; atelier KUU captures this atmosphere and transports it to ‘pacific dazzle baton‘, a salon in the tarumi district town myodani. the craggy silhouette is expressed in the facade by planters at various heights across the main exterior wall. doubling as luminaires, this pattern can also be comprehended at night. the deep entrance is carved out of the mass, like the opening to a hillside oasis. inside, a small fountain fills the space with the sound of trickling water. the layered tectonic elements add depth and sylvan texture, drawing the eye along the intended path from reception into the salon itself. enhancing the natural theme, the interior is finished with growing walls, planted vegetation, and floral-patterned screens. the esthetic program is arranged to give the customers solitude and tranquility as beauticians pass the ‘baton’ of their tangible creativity. 

window boxes sustaining a variety of plants double as luminaires, adding a jagged texture to the facade

layering tectonic elements with vegetation and and colored accents the space takes on the spirit of the mountains

floral curtains and verdant accents continue the theme in the main salon

separating the stations creates the intimate atmosphere desired by the client

the owner passes the ‘baton’ of beauty to her clients

bamboo-like elements screen the consultation area

this seat is located at the pinnacle of the salon

the silhouette of leaves dance on the walls as if sunlight were streaming through a tree canopy into the washroom