Kuma was Geoffroy’s first choice. They first met in around 2005 when working on another, unrealised, project, so this was a chance to set the record straight. ‘Kengo has been resetting the fundamentals of Japanese architecture,’ explains Geoffroy over a glass or two of IWA 5. ‘He has an undiluted and pure vision; he has put Japanese architecture back on the map. His architecture, like our sake, is rooted in Japan, but it has an international reach.
Kuma explains: ‘This is such an ambitious project and I realised a high-level partner was needed. Masuda-san is my friend and I have great respect for him. He has unique ideas for the future of sake, without compromising on the traditions.’ was of prime importance. ‘We visited many options for the site, and finally we found this perfect place, says Kuma. The site of Shiraiwa is located next to the town of Tateyama, near Toyama on the Sea of Japan coast.
‘It accommodates and hides many functions,’ says Kuma. ‘Traditionally, this area was renowned for the production of silk, and at the centre of many old houses there would be a large hearth, which would not only heat up the private spaces but also the factory spaces, to dry the silk. This large roof is a symbol of that kind of living and producing.
This is Kuma’s first kura. ‘It’s a very special commission for a Japanese architect,’ he explains. ‘Both the making of sake and the making of architecture require attention to detail and the pursuit of perfection. The combination of tradition, craftsmanship and contemporary technology. I want to show that kind of harmony.’ With Kuma renowned for exporting Japanese culture globally, and Geoffroy taking his vision of French culture to Japan, we have the perfect blend.
The central hearth and reception area, with a ceiling made of Japanese sugi cedar, and washi paper wallcoverings made to order by local craftspeople.
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