seki designs otsuka-gofukuten kimono storefront in kobe, japan

seki designs second otsuka-gofukuten storefront in heart of kobe, japan
images © takumi ota photgraphy

otsuka-gofukuten is a traditional japanese dress store located in the heart of kobe, japan. their goal is to return the kimono to its former status of modern day fashion staple. the branch was conceived by japanese designer yusuke seki, who also realized the initial flag-store in kyoto, japan. with an approach that reflects the building’s corner location, seki creates a flexible space which captures the dual aesthetic and properties of both in and outdoors.

glass tables allow each kimono to be unfolded and presented to the customer
image by takumi ota

the uniquely designed shelves are distinguishable by a three step, high-mid-low, price display system to represent the differing tiers of kimonos. industrial layered glass tables facilitate the unfolding of each kimono as a way of presenting each individual fabric to the customer. layered glass is used to represent the merging of different environmental themes, in which shading and reflection help to graduate between soft and hard. contrast, between the coarse display materials and the fabric itself, distinguishes the sophistication of the kimonos.

the uniquely designed shelves are distinguishable by a three step, high-mid-low, price display system
image by takumi ota

bold shelving at the forefront displays dresses, while also creating a dynamic façade and division of the scheme. seki’s design approach demonstrates a flexible and sympathetic understanding of cultural spaces, in the context of their location and history, while also striving to make the small, limited plan a place in which customers feel welcome and comfortable.

layers of glass on the table mimic the layering of garments to create an outfit
image by takumi ota

coarse building materials contrast the softness and sophistication of the clothing fabric
image by takumi ota

seki’s flexible space captures the dual aesthetic and functional properties of interior and exterior
image by takumi ota

the design approach demonstrates a sympathetic understanding of cultural spaces
image by takumi ota

seki’s design makes the most of the small, limited room
image by takumi ota

tiers of kimono’s in otsuka-gofukuten
image by takumi ota

shading and reflection of layers help to soften and graduate the contrast between soft and hard
image by takumi ota

the design reflects the shops location within the site
image by takumi ota

project info:

art direction & total design: yusuke seki
official website: otsuka-gofukuten
location: kobe, japan

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