kengo kuma's wooden christmas tree sculptures illuminate EDITION hotels in tokyo

Kengo Kuma adorns Tokyo with Sustainable Christmas Trees

Celebrated architect Kengo Kuma unveils two innovative Christmas tree sculptures for The Tokyo EDITION hotels in Ginza and Toranomon, blending festive tradition with themes of sustainability and renewal. Displayed in the lobbies of these luxury hotels, the installations are crafted from sustainably sourced Japanese woods and are designed to continue their journey beyond the holiday season. After December, they will be transformed into bespoke furniture pieces by Karimoku Furniture, ensuring their purpose and beauty endure long after the festivities conclude.

The trees are on display at The Tokyo EDITION, Ginza from November 19 to December 25, and at The Tokyo EDITION, Toranomon from November 20 to December 26.

the Komorebi tree in Toranomon | all images courtesy of EDITION hotels

the distinct designs of the Kigumi and Komorebi trees

Kengo Kuma has created two distinct Christmas tree installations, each reflecting the character of its location. In Ginza, where cutting-edge technology meets traditional Japanese culture, the Kigumi tree stands as a jewel-like installation. Complementing the weaving-themed architecture and jewelry box-inspired lobby, its silver and bronze finishes highlight the beauty of six different wood species. In contrast, the Komorebi tree embodies the dynamic spirit of the Toranomon area, a hub of constant evolution. Its innovative design incorporates circular elements from underutilized woods, including small-diameter and naturally curved pieces, minimizing waste while evoking the essence of a vibrant forest.

‘I designed the Christmas tree as an architectural structure for this project. The trees have a story of their own assembly; even after it is nished, they will live forever. In this sense, I realized the ideal way of architecture in the future through the Christmas tree,’ shares the renowned Japanese architect.

the Kigumi tree in Ginza

From Trees to Timeless Karimoku Furniture

After the festive period, the trees, crafted from carefully sourced Japanese woods—including oak, castor aralia, magnolia, Japanese walnut, and Japanese maple—will be transformed into a furniture exhibition by Karimoku Furniture, a leading Japanese wooden furniture manufacturer.

‘We procure timber carefully nurtured over many years in each locality. We believe that as long as we handle
such timber, we should carry out appropriate manufacturing for that particular year, which will be loved for
many years. This project of reusing the wood used for the event as furniture is very attractive because it
aligns with what we cherish daily. We hope that by purchasing the table, you will be able to enjoy the variety
of the wood used in the table and feel the charm of the wood and the individuality of the forests we benet
from through our daily lives,’ says Eiichiro Kato, Board Director of Karimoku Furniture.

the Kigumi tree stands as a jewel-like installation