FREITAG opens store in kyoto, complete with DIY workshop + industrial aesthetics

following the opening of its two stores in tokyo and one in osaka, FREITAG has now opened a fourth outlet in japan, enlisting torafu architects to design a new tarpaulin distribution center in an 80-sq.m space in kyoto. the zurich-based company, which transforms used truck tarps into new bags, has always felt a special bond with the country as it shares with it a passion for the used, wabi-sabi aesthetic look. located very close to the ancient nishiki market and the metropolitan nakagyo-ku pedestrian precinct, the second freitag store in japan is modeled entirely on the industrial-style logistics warehouses at the company’s headquarters in zurich.all images by daici ano unless stated otherwise

designed by torafu architects, FREITAG‘s new store in kyoto is characterized by industrial aesthetics, which bring visitors closer to the original atmosphere of the company’s headquarters in zurich. among other things, the store has its own workshop where customers can fulfill their DIY ambitions and produce their own unique miniatures from tarp off-cuts. now converted into a tarpaulin distribution center, the premises stock around 1,100 recycled, one-off bags made from used truck tarps. and just so visitors to the kyoto store never forget the origin of every unique specimen, a highway-life-size mural of a truck dominates the outside of the newly opened shop.

the island fixtures, such as a large workbench type with rubber top and V100, FREITAG’s original system, define a clean reinforced concrete space constructed with rough columns and beams. the pendant lights deliver enough even light, which is diffused by reflectors to the top of the island fixtures, where items can be examined thoroughly. some functions such as a stockroom and a POS counter are located in the steel structure section with a semi-outdoor workspace, while the first DIY workstation in japan installed in the workspace provides opportunities to make original items.

image by corsin zarn

project info:

name: FREITAG store kyoto

architect: torafu architects

location: 400-1 izutsuyacho, nakagyo-ku, kyoto-shi, 604-8113

opening times: monday to sunday 11:00 – 20:00