klein dytham architecture clads osaka’s cartier store façade in luminous protruding diamonds

the wooden façade creates a visual juxtaposition to the high-end shopping district that meets a combination of metallic and glassy exteriors.

christina petridou February 4, 2022 3 min

a wooden facade for jewelry store in osaka

klein dytham architecture (KDA) has completed a three-dimensional wooden façade for cartier store in osaka, japan. the design team clad the entire storefront of the corner building in a geometric pattern carved out in hinoki — a naturally stable and weather-resistant material. with this gesture, they sought to create a visual juxtaposition to the high-end shopping district that meets a combination of metallic and glassy exteriors. therefore, KDA opted for a repetitive design interrupted by arched openings adding intimacy and warmth to the commercial area. klein dytham architecture clads osaka's cartier store façade in geometric wooden pattern all images by klein dytham architecture

klein dytham architecture creates a three-dimensional optical illusion

inspired by the classic cartier jewelry and japanese traditional hinoki masu boxes, the architects developed a three-dimensional optical illusion: an intricate pattern of tenderly protruding diamonds. the design team articulated twelve different hinoki units to clad the main façade, corners, and arched window details. the resulting composition employs more than 2,500 pieces, each individually handcrafted and finished by kyoto master carpenters using traditional joinery techniques.

an imposing double-height recess with curved edges forms a welcoming entrance to the jewelry store. the side windows reveal parts of the interior, allowing passers-by to take a first glimpse of what is inside. during the construction, one major challenge was the placement of the new façade within the permitted 200mm zone between the building and the boundary line. to deal with this, they formed a thin aluminum frame that supports the wooden panels. to further preserve the original hue and texture, the team finished them in a rain and UV-resistant clear lacquer. klein dytham architecture clads osaka's cartier store façade in geometric wooden pattern

the northeast-facing openings let daylight tackle in, animating the charm of the wood. however, to pop up the façade’s beauty at night, the architects set individual LED lights behind each unit, illuminating the entire structure. diffused by the box-like diamond of each section, the effect enriches the three-dimensionality of the façade yet adds an inviting, warm glow.

the project has been nominated for the building of the year 2022 by archdaily.