KINO architects transforms two kyoto machiya townhouses into hotel sumihotaru

KINO architects has renovated two traditional townhouses (machiya) in the center of downtown kyoto, and transformed them into sumihotaru, a pair of japanese-style hotel accommodations. located within a quaint and historical neighborhood of the city, the two adjacent buildings share a traditional plastered and wooden façade. inside, each unit  comprises its own garden, kitchen and dining area, and bedrooms.

all images by kai nakamura

‘we aimed to leave the image of the traditional japanese townhouse,at the same time, express the unknown beauty of japan,’ explains KINO architects. ‘we got an idea from japanese novelist junichiro tanizaki’s essay, “in praise of shadows”. he says “beautifulness is not in the object, but in the shade of the conspiracy created by the object and in the light and dark.”‘ as one slides the gate to enter either of the two volumes of hotel sumihotaru, they come across a lush inner garden featuring native palm trees, ferns and moss before entering the machiya.

inside, rich textures found in the wooden ceiling, brilliant metals, and walls reminiscent of stone highlighted by natural light create a relaxing, luxurious atmosphere. a traditional japanese tatami room that looks on to the inner garden features a gorgeous brushed silver-leaf wall. at the same time, the bathroom, which features either a cauldron bathtub or rainfall shower, incorporates glass doors and offers views of the two ‘tsunboniwa’ gardens. the bedroom in one of the two accommodations features space for up to three japanese futon beds, while the other is a spacious western bedroom featuring high ceilings and exposed architecture with warmth.

project info:

name: hotel sumihotaru

architect: KINO architects

location: kyoto, japan

principal use: japanese-style hotel

structure: wood

scale of building: 2 stories

site area: 119.06 m2

building area: 82.92 m2

total floor area: 140.56 m2