Sunny Hills | Architecture of Japan | Kengo Kuma

https://inhabitat.com/kengo-kuma-wraps-tokyos-sunny-hills-cake-shop-in-a-latticed-3d-wooden-cloud/

During the Summer of 2016, I traveled under UofA Study Abroad to study Architecture in Japan. We went to many locations and buildings, but for every work there was a clear distinction on what is considered modern and traditional architecture. However, there is one architect that I am very fond of, who is a master at combining aspects of traditional and modern architecture into a single building design, and that man is Kengo Kuma.

https://www.azuremagazine.com/article/kengo-kuma-architect-wooden-world/

I admire every building this man has designed because he is thoughtful of every detail that goes into the design, concept, and program of the building. His work often incorporates a nature aspect to return and remind us that we take from the earth and should be inspired by it daily. Of all the buildings I visited by him so far, more in the future I hope, my favorite place so far is Sunny Hills in Tokyo.

PC: Rachel Low

A very small shop nestled in the quiet Aoyama neighborhood, the facade of the building stands out among the residential houses and quaint shops. The lattice exterior is completely made of jointed wood, a traditional building method whose origins stretch far back in Japanese history. The traditional wooden joinery has been transformed into a modern design that shields the interior from harsh daylight, yet still has an even set of opening to allow streams of light in. The warmness of the wood and light helps to create a an interior environment that is comfortable and cozy, even during the hot humid days of summer it feels cool and calm like a forest. 

https://www.dezeen.com/2014/02/25/sunnyhills-at-minami-aoyama-by-kengo-kuma/

Upon entering the building, you are greeted by the employee at the front desk; once you have said your hellos and bows you can make your way up the thin stairs to the second floor where the shop  sells its Taiwanese Pineapple cakes. You would be surprised to hear that the cake and tea you will receive is free. No tricks at all, but it does make you feel guilty enough to purchase a box in gratitude for their kindness. 

PC: Rachel Low

Tea cakes aside, the wooden material on the outside is used further inside as the walls and dividers, continuing the geometry and lattice design within keeps you in suspense to see the next few floors. As you reach the top 3rd floor, it is a simple room with tables and chairs set for larger groups than downstairs, but there is a much larger opening that lets in light from the outside. Here it feels more open and as if you have reached a goal of some kind as the blessed light floods into the room upon entry.  

PC: Rachel Low

Poetics aside, the bathroom was pretty bomb too. I loved the wooden sink! Its amazing to see how versatile one material can be!

PC: Rachel Low

In the end, this is one of my favorite buildings by one of my most admired architect!  I hope to someday see all the buildings he has designed and maybe, be able to design just as thoughtful and beautiful as he does!

PC: Rachel Low