Kimono Culture Revived: Otsuka Gofukuten – Kyoto, Japan By Yusuke Seki

Up till the mid 19th century, the kimono was the dressing of choice by the Japanese. This robe was traditionally created of silk and passed on by means of generations. In present day, it is primarily reserved for unique occasions and ceremonies, but seems to be creating a comeback amongst mainstream Japanese fashion. Interior designer Yusuke Seki is an integral component of that movement with his modern interpretation of a kimono (or gofuku) shop named Otsuka Gofukuten in Kyoto, Japan.

Located at the foot of the sacred Yasaka Shrine in the Gion District, Otsuka Gofukuten was designed to create an easy shopping encounter for today’s kimono purchaser. The 70-year-old space, a former tofu factory, now stuns with its minimalist architecture, even though simultaneously embracing the refined culture reminiscent of a vintage era.

Care was taken to retain the original white walls of tile operate all through the interior, though Seki chose to artfully chisel the facade making unexpected textures. Portions of the glass window plates have been also restored and sections of the concrete walls left raw, all maintaining the industrial aesthetic and playing best contrast to gorgeous colours and soft textures of the kimono fabrics.

3 separate areas showcase an array of kimono according to price tag, style and material making for a simplified shopping expertise. Recessed lighting is plentiful all through, highlighting the a variety of displays all through this modern interior. Smooth, pale woods are used in different presentations such as open stacked shelving with geometric metal frames, sliding drawers, as well as stand-alone tables which all magnificently showcase the colourful rolls of fabric for each and every bespoke kimono.

Rough, irregular-shaped stones hand-painted in ultra-bright hues are scattered throughout the floors of this contemporary space, as are neon-painted, bare tree branches resting upon the pale wood shelving. These pop-culture elements, when set against the otherwise neutral interior, add a unique element of surprise.

A completed concrete staircase leads to the second level which imitates an art gallery depicting the history of kimono culture.

photo © Takumi Ota