snow picnic ice cream store in tokyo by torafu architects

snow picnic ice cream store in tokyo by torafu architects
photo by takumi ota
all images courtesy of torafu architects

japanese studio torafu architects has redesigned the interior of a colorful and welcoming ice cream store in tokyo’s nakano ward. titled ‘snow picnic’, the scheme allows customers to watch their order being prepared, with the kitchen and adjacent counter envisioned as a stage upon which the meticulous performance takes place.

the scheme allows customers to watch their order being prepared
photo by takumi ota

the shop is spread across three levels, each featuring a distinct floor covering. in order to establish a cohesive sense of continuity, materials are repeated throughout the design. the same vintage tiles are used for the tabletop and the entrance flooring, while timber furnishings are incorporated across the entirety of the project. visitors are invited to sit around a large centrally positioned table, while a couch and further cantilevered tables provide additional seating.

visitors are invited to sit around a large centrally positioned table
photo by takumi ota

a couch and further cantilevered tables provide additional seating for guests
photo by takumi ota

the shop is spread across three levels, each featuring a distinct floor covering
photo by takumi ota

the same vintage tiles are used for the tabletop and the entrance flooring
photo by takumi ota

timber furnishings are incorporated across the entirety of the project
photo by takumi ota

the tile-clad table stretches through the center of the store
photo by takumi ota

looking towards the street from the kitchen counter
photo by takumi ota

project info:

type: retail (ice cream store)
production: ishimaru
building site: nakano tokyo
total floor area: 64.14 sqm
design period: november, 2013 – june, 2014
completed: june, 2014
photography: takumi ota