this new pokémon center by I IN echoes okinawa's ocean and landscapes

Pokémon Center Okinawa | all images © Tomooki Kengaku

where physical and digital meet 

Exemplifying its references to the video game, I IN took the famous Monster Ball, with its iconic shiny red and blue case, and repeatedly incorporated it throughout the Pokémon Center in minimalist graphic forms. Moreover, abstract and bold representations of Okinawa’s abundant nature, ocean waters, and verdant greenery were echoed across the space, adding to the interiors’ immersive, otherworldly quality.

‘Color and texture evoke deep waters at the circular core and heart of the Pokémon Center, where visitors can access information and Pokémon games through videos and presentations,’ elaborates the studio.

Surrounding the core are experience zones with changing content to continuously excite visitors — spaces that introduce card games, showcase new visual media, and offer the latest goods. ‘The Pokémon universe is already well known to the public; this physical store, however, can convey the appeal of Pokémon to an even wider audience by connecting the virtual and real worlds,’ concludes I IN.  

the entrance reveals an open-plan circular enclosure washed in ocean-blue tones

Pikachu on display

an experience zone introducing Pokémon card games

visitors can enjoy shopping for goods at the center

references to the Monster Ball echo throughout the Pokémon Center in Okinawa

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project info:

name: Pokémon Center Okinawa

location: Okinawa, Japan 
architecture: I IN

photography: Tomooki Kengaku

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.

edited by: lea zeitoun | designboom