vivid blues turn kyoto townhouse into water-themed coffee stand by atelier satoshi takijiri

translucent corrugated panels and colored acrylic sheets evoke rippling reflections, inspired by the connection of the region to water.

thomai tsimpou December 9, 2024 3 min

Atelier Satoshi Takijiri restores traditional japanese townhouse

Atelier Satoshi Takijiri Architects transforms a traditional Japanese nagaya townhouse in Uji, Kyoto Prefecture, into a coffee stand. The design takes inspiration from Uji’s connection to water, a motif expressed through a palette of vibrant blues and dynamic materials. Translucent corrugated panels and colored acrylic sheets evoke the rippling reflections of water, while diffused light interacts with these materials to create a vibrant interior atmosphere. This fluid interplay of light, shadow, and color mirrors the natural landscapes of the region, transforming the coffee stand into an homage to the abundance of spring water in Uji.

At the core of the design is the ingenious melding of traditional Japanese joinery techniques, such as hozo-tsugi, with current engineering solutions. To reinforce the seismic resilience of the historic wooden structure, the team incorporates steel pipes alongside the joinery. The steel columns, placed in seemingly random arrangements, echo the Japanese architectural philosophy of Ma—an appreciation for the intervals and spaces that define a structure.

vivid blues turn kyoto townhouse into water-themed coffee stand by atelier satoshi takijiri - 1 — all images by nishioka kiyoshi, courtesy of Atelier Satoshi Takijiri Architects

rediscovering uji through multi-layered coffee stand

Tokyo-based Atelier Satoshi Takijiri Architects reshapes the role of the building within the community. By preserving the historical character of the nagaya while introducing contemporary design elements, the coffee stand offers a space that invites locals and visitors to rediscover Uji through a fresh lens. Its open and adaptable layout creates a platform for artistic exploration.

This renovation project creates a multi-layered experience that celebrates heritage and progress at the same time. The coffee stand in Uji aims to showcase the potential of architecture in merging tradition with innovation, offering a unique environment for all who visit. In doing so, it enriches the cultural landscape of the region, underscoring the enduring value of context-sensitive design.