K5 Tokyo
In a converted 1920’s bank building, K5 Tokyo exists within a sprawl of concrete, asphalt and overpasses next to the Tokyo Stock Exchange.
K5 Tokyo is a hotel (with just 20 rooms) and mixed-use building, including a restaurant, wine bar, coffee shop, cocktail bar & beer hall.
The Japanese word ‘aimai’ guides K5 Tokyo’s concept. It means vague, obscure or ambiguous, which in Japan is often used in a positive, poetic sense. The building’s functions intentionally intermingle: The library is the bar. The lounge is a flower shop, which is also the café, which is the wine bar, which is also the restaurant. The spaces and functions purposely intermingle.
The local lack of greenery inspired the creation of a ‘green oasis’ in K5 Tokyo. A multitude of potted plants spread out, aimai fashion, throughout. The hotel has a gardener but no traditional garden.
The palette consists of traditional materials such as concrete, cedar and Japanese stucco. Complemented by a wide range of furniture and accessories, custom designed by the architects.
The guest rooms are characterised by the inclusion of a central, translucent fabric ‘column’ rising to the high ceiling. It envelops a freestanding bed with integrated shelf and desk, and is illuminated by a custom-designed washi-paper lamp. Other custom-designed furnishings, such as sofas, an easy chair and flower pots are placed like ‘satellites’ while the walls are kept free.
http://www.claessonkoivistorune.se/
