In the bustling city of Tokyo, where innovation and tradition intertwine, a unique transformation has taken place. Atelier Write, a Japanese studio, has breathed new life into an old warehouse, creating a hair salon like no other. This project, named 'Unravel', is a testament to the studio's creative vision and a fascinating exploration of space and functionality.
Unraveling the Salon's Story
Nestled in Tokyo's Kiyosumi Shirakawa district, a neighborhood known for its creative repurposing of warehouses, Atelier Write took on the challenge of designing a versatile space. The studio's founder, Takuya Sakamoto, explains their approach: "By embracing the industrial nature of the building, we aimed to create a dynamic environment that could adapt to various activities."
The Magic of Suspended Elements
One of the most intriguing aspects of Unravel is the use of suspended mirrors, shelves, and curtains. These elements, hung from ceiling-mounted rails, offer a unique flexibility. Sakamoto elaborates, "This system allows the space to transform, creating a salon that goes beyond the conventional."
Mirrors as Multifunctional Tools
Three large mirrors, with integrated steel worktops and sockets, are the stars of the show. They can be moved to define the salon area or create an open, spacious feel. This versatility ensures the salon can accommodate different needs, from intimate haircuts to larger seminars.
Softening the Industrial Edge
To balance the industrial aesthetic, the studio opted for a pastel green palette. This color choice not only adds a subtle pop of color but also softens the predominantly metal interior. Full-height curtains in pastel pink mesh further enhance this effect, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, especially when closing off the VIP and spa areas.
Furniture: Industrial Yet Inviting
The furniture, designed with an industrial character, includes green steel shelving and low timber tables. Sakamoto notes, "Materials were carefully selected to complement the warehouse's existing character."
Blending Old and New
The industrial steel racks, adapted for shampoo and reception areas, seamlessly blend with the existing structure. The suspended mirrors and shelves, finished in electro-galvanized steel, add a modern touch while maintaining a neutral presence.
Preserving the Warehouse's Charm
Atelier Write made a conscious effort to retain the warehouse's original features. The large shutter opening was preserved and filled with glass, sheltered by a corrugated metal canopy. A raw, unfinished staircase leads to a studio space on the first floor, adding a layer of authenticity.
A Salon's Connection to the City
Sakamoto's vision extends beyond the salon's walls. He hopes that by creating a space that adapts to different activities, "it will encourage a reciprocal relationship between the salon and the city."
A Creative Hub in Kiyosumi Shirakawa
Unravel is not the only creative venture in this district. Nearby, another warehouse has been transformed into a warm and inviting cafe by Fourteen Stones Design. These projects showcase the district's unique character and its embrace of adaptive reuse.
Final Thoughts
Unravel is more than just a hair salon; it's a creative haven. Atelier Write's innovative use of space and materials showcases their talent and a fresh perspective on adaptive reuse. This project invites us to rethink the potential of existing structures and the role they can play in fostering community and creativity. Personally, I find it inspiring to see how a simple warehouse can be transformed into a dynamic, multi-purpose space, and it makes me wonder about the endless possibilities of architectural repurposing.
