future-scape architects: jigsaw

‘jigsaw’ by daigo ishii + future-scape architects, nigata, japan all images © future-scape architects

tokyo-based architect daigo ishii of future-scape architects has designed ‘jigsaw’, a beauty salon positioned within a renovated office building in a residential area of nigata, japan. the 25-year old wooden construct has been revised and integrated into the new facade, expressing the existing windows and openings to retain the structure’s original spirit. the horizontal and vertical positions of the fenestration arrangement has been determined from a grid manipulation based upon the ground, floor, ledges, door frames and ceiling plane. this effect maintains the rhythm of the long-established townscape, seamlessly blending into the context while improving the immediate appearance.

street elevation

the exterior is translated into the interior, reflecting the series of penetrations within a row of mirrored panels which facilitate each work station. the small floor area appears larger by introducing glimpses of the exterior environment and natural daylight into the space. breaking away from the orthogonal configuration, the relaxation rooms are recessed within a dark niche enclosed with partitions surfaced with curved andean rose veneer. a tranquil atmosphere is produced with backlit sheer fabric panels affixed to the perimeter walls.

view from entrance

ramp parallel to entry facade

ramped entry

view from interior of entrance facade

(left) sign from interior (right) waiting area

stations and mirror panels

stations and mirror panels

(left) approach to relaxation space (right) door to relaxation space

(left) door within relaxation space (right) relaxation space

ceiling of relaxation space

exterior at dusk

street view at dusk

floor plan / level 0

existing floor plan / level 0

axonometric

facade diagram

facade diagram

project info:

architect: daigo ishii + future-scape architects structural engineers: oga structural design office mechanical engineers: mai mechanical design

location: nigata, nigata, japan client: owner of beauty salon use: beauty salon

site area: 302m2 house area: 112m2 floor area: 112m2

structure: wood exterior finish: galvanized steel plate

interior finish: floor concrete painted by polyurethane paint wall plaster board painted by acrylic emulsion paint andean rose plywood ceiling plaster board painted by vinyl paint with high gloss