Aichi (Aichi Prefecture)
Technology
- To add tranquility to the hustle and bustle of the underground shopping center
The underground shopping mall in Sakae, Nagoya. In this bustling place where many people come and go, there is a restaurant with a quiet atmosphere that makes you want to stop and take a look. This is the recently renovated restaurant of the long-established Japanese restaurant "Suzunami. Suzunami has long been known for its Japanese food and pickles. The restaurant has been carefully created in a "Japanese" style that includes not only the flavor of the food, but also the mannerisms and atmosphere of the restaurant. For this renovation, we sought to create a new Japanese space suited to the modern underground shopping center environment, while respecting such Suzunami's originality. AICHI METAL quietly assisted in the creation of this space.
The design team's challenge was to give form to "modern harmony
Designed by Yasutaka Yoshimura & Associates and Nanometer Architecture. The two architects aimed to create a "Japanese" style that respects tradition while at the same time harmonizing with contemporary urban spaces. In the environment of an underground shopping mall, where there is a large flow of people, air conditioning, and changes in humidity, materials must not only be beautiful, but also durable and maintainable. Under these conditions, we were approached to propose a metal material that utilizes a surface treatment technology called "MetalSurface.
Another gentle expression of metal
Metal is a material that may give the impression of being "hard" or "cold. However, through ingenuity in finishing and processing, it is possible to bring out the warmth, softness, and depth of texture in metal. In this project, we sought a subdued texture that blends in with the Japanese atmosphere, durability and cleanability as an alternative to wood, and a material that can be enjoyed as it ages. To meet these requirements, we chose a metal material with a brass finish that is less shiny and more expressive.
Tranquility and depth in "Kugurimon
The frame, which resembles a "kugurimon" gate at the entrance to the store, is an impressive presence that naturally catches the attention of visitors. Its structure is made of a metal material that at first glance appears to be wood. The MetalSurface technology suppresses the glare characteristic of metal, and its expression changes delicately depending on the angle and the way the light hits it. It is not too conspicuous, yet gives a new impression every time you visit. This "quiet change" brings depth and dignity to the space. Similar materials are also used for the walls and display stands, bringing a gentle sense of unity to the entire space. Our goal was to create a space that enhances the presence of the products and fixtures, while at the same time functioning discreetly as a backdrop.
Created by the overlap of design and production
This project was also impressive in that the design and production worked closely together. What kind of light would shine through and from what perspective would it be viewed? As the design team carefully shared these ideas with us, we listened to their intentions and carefully worked through each drawing, prototype, and fabrication. The design team's goal was to create a product that would blend in naturally with the space, without making an assertion that it is a metal. We quietly gave shape to the possibilities of the material while repeating these words over and over again.
The metal is inconspicuous, but it is there
Stepping into the completed space, few people may notice that metal is used here. However, the presence of MetalSurface is certainly present in the serenity that wafts behind the gate and the calm atmosphere of the display stand. While supporting the space, it is at the same time understated. This is the attitude that we value.
To enhance the quality of space through the power of materials
At AICHI METAL, we do not see metals as mere building materials. We are in dialogue with designers and craftsmen as we work with each and every material to enhance the quality of the space and to leave a gentle impression on the hearts and minds of those who gather there. We will continue to deliver metal materials that accompany spaces and quietly demonstrate their power when needed. We will continue to learn and refine our hands every day.
