toru shimokawa wraps concrete 'belt' around boutique clothing store in japan

toru shimokawa architects has wrapped a concrete ‘belt’ around ‘oharasando building’, a boutique clothing store located along the approach to the ohara hachimangu shrine in hita city, oita prefecture, japan. the shop, which carries both men’s and women’s clothing, is divided in two levels: a semi-underground level where menswear is located; and a level above ground for womenswear. the floor height of each level has been arranged in a way that ensures enough privacy from the street outside, allowing customers to relax and enjoy their time in the store.
all images by kenichi suzuki

situated on a plot in the old townscape of hita city that combines shops and houses, the project by toru shimokawa architects stands out with its concrete construction of concrete beams and columns. the japanese architect has adjusted the line of sight for both floors of the clothing store to ensure enough privacy for its customers. as such, menswear has been placed on a semi-underground level, while womenswear is located one floor above. though clad mostly in glass, the top floor incorporates a concrete ‘belt’ which wraps around it to limit exposure to the outside environment.

toru shimokawa provided a buffer zone around the highly transparent upper level, which is formed between the concrete ‘belt’ and the grid of beams. this zone features densely planted trees and allows natural light to enter the space. the combination of greenery, light, and the rough texture of the ‘belt’ creates an intriguing background for the clothing on display. the powerful shape of the grid of concrete beams gives the building its characteristic appearance, inviting customers to experience the horizontal expansion of the 289 sqm shop.  

project info:

name: oharasando building

architect: toru shimokawa architects

location: ohara hachimangu, hita city, oita prefecture, japan

site area: 242.18 m2

building area: 181.29 m2

total floor area: 288.96 m2