arkhe beauty salon by moriyuki ochiai architects

arkhe beauty salon architecture by moriyuki ochiai architects
all images courtesy of atsushi ishida (nacasa + partners inc.)

the flowing of water is expressed throughout the ever-changing interior of arkhe beauty salon, by japanese firm moriyuki ochiai architects. the design features a large sculptural ceiling made from curving recycled aluminum sheets, that twist and bend throughout the spaces. the varying ceiling heights and elegantly folding forms help to define the different rooms; the main hair-cutting space is high with an open, expressive ceiling, whereas the waiting area is much calmer with a lower ceiling. the main concept is based around the theme of water: ‘arkhe’ refers to the ancient belief that water is the source of all creation. the lights change throughout the day, from a bright white light to more emotional blue and purple hues at night, giving a sense of transience similar to moving reflections on the surface of a river. the aluminum ceiling parts can be easily disassembled and reinstalled should the business change locations.

hair cutting area at night time showing the flowing high ceiling

full view of interior (day time)

hair cutting area (day time) showing the flowing high ceiling

the main aisle area + view of the shampoo room from the main hair cutting area

shampoo room

detail of aluminum ceiling

detail of aluminum ceiling

project info:

project name: arkhe beauty salon
design firm: moriyuki ochiai architects / twoplus-a
designer: moriyuki ochiai
use: beauty salon
area: 120sqm
location: chiba, japan
photography: atsushi ishida ( nacasa & partners inc.)
client: arkhe beauty salon

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.