Schemata: EEL Nakameguro

A space intentionally left incomplete and a construction process mostly of “subtraction” are key elements for this apparel shop realised by Jo Nagasaka / Schemata Architects in Tokyo.

Creating a sense of “incompleteness” was the key to the design of the new EEL shop in the Tokyo’s quartier of Meguro by Jo Nagasaka / Schemata Architects.

Jo Nagasaka／Schemata Architects: EEL Nakameguro, Tokyo

“In my mind clothes are associated with warmth of human body”, explains Jo Nagasaka, “Sometimes that feeling gets too intense and uncomfortably hot. This is why I wanted to make the background as calm as possible.” The space was intentionally left incomplete and, when clothes were set in place, it could be considered complete. The construction process was mostly a process of “subtraction” – dismantling, peeling, and scraping unnecessary layers – except for a few “additional” elements. The site was formerly used as office space. For the floor, Schemata Architects peeled off the existing carpet and sanded exposed mortar undercoat thoroughly to make it perfectly horizontal and “super-flat”.

As a result they created unique random mosaic pattern, in some places aggregates are revealed, and in other places finer particles cover up the surface. All the finishing materials-paint, baseboard, insulation etc. were also removed from walls and ceiling, and a hidden surface of concrete – unfinished and not ready for public viewing – is now exposed.

Jo Nagasaka／Schemata Architects: EEL Nakameguro, Tokyo

By reversing the construction process, a state of “incompleteness” reappears. Display fixtures are also constructed halfway and left at a state of “incompleteness”. Stainless steel mirror and frame are welded for assembly and Schemata left the weld joint unpolished, so it creates interesting patterns on the surface. Hanging racks are made of anti-corrosive coated steel pipes. Surface coating is removed at joints then they are welded together. The Japanese studio erased burnt traces of welding but left steel surface unpainted. Wooden boxes, used as display base, are made of lauan wood. It is a kind wood usually used for underlay, but they decided to leave it unpainted. “These unfinished elements reinforce our design concept of incompleteness”, adds Nagasaka.

Other elements were added to this space: glass partition wall, fitting room, concrete block masonry wall separating shop and back room, and thick steel tension cable that is used to hang clothes, lighting fixtures and electrical wiring for lighting. When the final design element-clothes are displayed, the space is complete.

EEL Nakameguro
Architect: Jo Nagasaka / Schemata Architects
Program: Apparel shop
Construction: TANK
Floor area: 123 sqm
Structure: RC
Completion: February 2013
Photo: Takumi Ota

Schemata: EEL Nakameguro

A space intentionally left incomplete and a construction process mostly of “subtraction” are key elements for this apparel shop realised by Jo Nagasaka / Schemata Architects in Tokyo.

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