Kyotology

Hotel for Cosmos More

The book “In Praise of Shadows” by Junichiro Tanizaki and research about traveller’s behaviors in Kyoto formed foundation of this project. Tanizaki stated that Japanese blessed shadows over the light throughout history which lead to Japanese traditional architecture such as intertwining exterior and interior. The research showed travellers in Kyoto are highly interested in its culture and history, therefore the team set “Unwind and Explore” as a concept and created a hotel where the guests are encouraged to learn, experience and relax.

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Kyotology Hotel Press Releases

Availability alert: Press releases for Kyotology in languages including English.

Kyotology Hotel Media Articles

Access our collection of Kyotology articles, ready for use and offered in languages: Turkish, Hindi, Indonesian, Dutch, Arabic (Standard), English, Italian, German, French, Portuguese, Spanish, Korean, Japanese, Russian and Chinese (Mandarin).

Unique Properties

As the number of hotel rooms had increased 400% since 2012, majorities are focused more on its capacity which did not have the local culture nor history. Therefore we felt an urge to create a place where tourists can experience traditional accommodation of Kyoto. The hotel initiates the local economic system by attracting curious users. Intertwining exterior and interior especially placing the inner garden in every room makes this brand established.

Tags

Kyoto, garden, Shadow, architecture, heritage, local economy

Production Technology

Vertical lines that are created by standing seam roofs emphasize changing shadows during the day. High edge roof end is a symbol of Sukiyazukuri style which is a common style for a building exclusively used for a Japanese tea ceremony. We surveyed neighbors’ window levels to avoid direct eye contact between users and neighbors. By adjusting window placements from neighbors, users could feel secure and private while staying in the guest rooms.

Design Challenge

It is common for a government to set landscape regulations to maintain the historical view of the city, and Kyoto city also sets various and precise rules mainly for color of facade, height of the building and usage of the balcony/rooftop. Since Kyoto city added more rules to the regulations while we were planning, we were forced to be flexible and let go of some of the design details. Architectural regulation made it really difficult to place the inner garden; we had to think carefully about balancing between architectural structure, livable environment for plants in the garden, and comfort of the guests.

Project Duration

The project started in January 2018 in Kyoto and Tokyo Japan.

Operation Flow

As soon as the guest arrive, they go through Noren at the gate to enter the site before entering the building which used to mean that they are entring a commercial space. The guests walk through lobby/lounge area, then they proceed to the front desk to check in. After check in, they proceed to the corridor lightened up with dim traditional lantern shaped room signs.

Research

First of all, our R&D team researched about the history of the site and Kyoto. The area around the site was located close to Zen temple, and it has been left out from urban development of the city. Volume of travellers in Kyoto, popular tourist attractions, travelling patterns and many more elements were researched. Secondly, we visited the site and the former owner. The owner used to live at the site with his family for generations in a classical Japanese style house with a well-maintained garden. As soon as we saw the original site, we knew that we had to keep the original vibes. Thirdly, the team visited local shops and restaurants to look for potential partnerships. Since the hotel is not equipped with a kitchen, it was necessary to provide food for hotel guests from nearby restaurants.

Inspiration

In the book "In Praise of Shadows" Tanizaki stated the conceptual base of Japanese architectural beauty lies in shadows. Japanese cherish shadows over the history of its cultural development, and we translate its concept into modern architecture. By intertwining exterior and interior, and garden and concrete, shadows began to shine. Another inspiration was the local people who were eager to reactivate the local economy by collaborating with the local designers, constructors, and shop owners.

Image Credits

Cosmos More

Project Overview

Kyotology Hotel has been a Iron winner in the Hospitality, Recreation, Travel and Tourism Design award category in the year 2020 organized by the prestigious A' Design Award & Competition. The Iron A' Design Award is awarded to good designs that meet the rigorous professional and industrial standards set by the A' Design Awards. This recognition is reserved for works that demonstrate a solid understanding of design principles and show creativity within their execution. Recipients of the Iron A' Design Award are acknowledged for their practical innovations and contributions to their respective fields, providing solutions that improve quality of life and foster positive change. These designs are a testament to the skill and dedication of their creators, showcasing their ability to address real-world challenges through thoughtful design.

Iron Recognition

GOOD PLACE was recognized with the coveted Iron A' Design Award in 2021, a testament to excellence of their work Kyotology Hotel.

GOOD PLACE Press Releases

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Introducing Kyotology: A Unique Hotel Design Inspired by Japanese Shadows

Cosmos More Unveils Kyotology, a Hotel Design Project in Kyoto, Japan

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