T-HOUSE New Balance
The goal of this project was to dismantle an old “kura” (Japanese traditional warehouse) in Kawagoe, transport the components to the site and reassemble them to create a new space.
Instead of simply reassembling the structure on the site, the client’s plan was to build a new structure on the site and reassemble the structural framework of kura inside it. We were concerned that it might end up looking like an old folk house displayed in a museum, and started developing ideas for the project while questioning its fakeness.
T-HOUSE is a new space established as part of New Balance’s Energy Project, which takes the initiative in driving the brand forward. Japan was selected among many countries in the world not only because it is highly recognized for its excellent craftsmanship, but also because it is considered as one of the strategic hubs in Asia. At the same time, T-House, as a character representing the brand, was expected to express unique characteristics of Japan, and the brand’s project team proceeded with the relocation plan of kura upon approval.
Jo Nagasaka
Jo Nagasaka established Schemata Architects right after graduating from Tokyo University of the Arts in 1998. He established the shared creative office “HAPPA” in 2007. Currently he has an office in Aoyama area of Tokyo. Jo has extensive experience in a wide range of expertise from furniture to architecture. His design approach is always based on 1:1 scale, regardless of what size he deals with. He works extensively in Japan and around the world, while expanding his design activity in various fields.
His main works include: Flat Table / SAYAMA FLAT (2008) / Aesop Aoyama (2011) / House in Okusawa (2009) / HANARE (2011) / VITRA Exhibition Stand at Fiera Milano (2015) /BLUE BOTTLE COFFEE (2015) etc.
Credits
Client: New Balance
Company: Schemata Architects
Designer: Jo Nagasaka
Country: Japan
Photographs: ©Kenta Hasegawa / ©Schemata Architects
