tokyo-based studio KATORI archi+design associates designs its recently completed westin miyako chapel with a rich and rhythmic timber interior. the chapel, sited in the foothills of kyoto’s higashiyama district, is introduced to complement the nearby westin miyako hotel which has stood for 130 years. with the major renovation and earthquake retrofit of the chapel, takenori katori and fumi habara of KATORI expresses same elegance and design-mindedness.

westin miyako chapel katori
images by tomohiro sakashita

 

 

in renovating the westin miyako chapel in kyoto, the design team at KATORI archi+design associates makes use of as much of the existing framework as possible. an intricate wooden ceiling lattice is introduced, interwoven with indirect lighting to suggest an atmosphere of sunlight filtering through a canopy of trees, recalling those trees which occupy the site. the design team emphasizes a visual connection with the forested natural context by redesigning the windows, thoughtfully framing the treetops surrounding the space. 

westin miyako chapel katori

 

 

KATORI archi+design associates clads the interior with a system of wooden louvers to generate a sense of depth and rhythm. serving as a cohesive, textural continuation of the ceiling lattice, this element succeeds in tying the entire space together. the timber louvers further serve to ensure the serene and high quality acoustic reverberations required in a chapel. demonstrating respect for the abundant natural surroundings, a material palette of rusticated stonework and wood take center stage in this sacred space imbued with a traditional japanese aesthetic.

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project info:

 

project title: westin miyako kyoto chapel renovation

architecture: KATORI archi+design associates

location: higashiyama-ku, kyoto, japan

design team: takenori katori, fumi habara

interior design: KATORI archi+design associates

lighting design: moduleX inc.

acoustical design: naniwa chiba acoustics inc.

client: kintetsu miyako hotels international,inc.

contractor: KINSO inc.

completion: april 2020

photography: tomohiro sakashita