schemata architects: takeo kikuchi interior design, shibuya

‘takeo kikuchi’ by schemata architects, tokyo, japanall images courtesy of schemata architects

commissioned to design the interior of a retail store one year after the devastating tohoko earthquake, japanese studio schemata architects sought to re-think the relationship between commercial architecture and the consumer in the ‘takeo kikuchi’ clothing brand retailer in shibuya. to open up a newcommunication between the exterior and interior, operable wood-frame windows were installed into the otherwise solid curtain wall facade.being a long and narrow footprint of 7 meters deep by 25 meters long, three  thresholds create visual layers that allure individuals into the store and then provide a sense of sequence through the shop, adding more depth to a transparent space. benches and gardens were inserted throughout the projectalong with other ‘human-friendly’ fixtures that foster interpersonal communication and make the act of browsing and shopping an enjoyable experiencethat the internet can’t offer. the original door is now accompanied by three more entrances, allowing a freer circulation, with more seating placed inthe middle of the rooms so that visitors may always have a place to sit and dialogue.

interior partitions are made form portable wood and steel walls, with variable amounts of each depending on their exact purpose and what they will display. other fixtures such as the shelves and chairs are made from the synthesis of restored pieces of furniture and new elements. the designer’s workshophas also been integrated into the store, right next to the dress wear section on the second floor so that mr. kikuchi himself can get a fresh response from theuser as they peruse through the clothes.

interior gallery space

various types of displays and seating invite customers to lounge around comfortably as they browse

wood framed doors and windows allow a connection to the outside

front facade and entrances