Torafu Architects: Misubi

Yamada Sen-I Co., Ltd. is a furoshiki (wrapping cloth) manufacturer based in Kyoto and Torafu Architects performed the renovations for their directly-managed official shop, Musubi.

Since the store is located in a quiet area of Harajuku, Tokyo, deliverables included a space to showcase the furoshiki designs on sale by increasing available store space and improving the visibility of the store’s interior.

This showcase wall puts on display their rich selection while offering a clean and categorized presentation like a palette from which nearly the entire design collection can be taken in all at once. While the white-based interior brings out the furoshiki designs to the fore, Torafu sought to counter the coldness of the existing stone flooring by placing warm wooden fixtures throughout the store, thus improving its flow. Moreover, new arrivals and seasonal products are featured on the wall facing the palette type display on cantilever display shelves that run parallel along the narrowing passage and extend all the way outside to the recessed entrance, where they beckon passersby in. Furthermore, furoshiki hanging on display from the ceiling add a third dimension to the store space.

In order to expand the salesroom space at the back of the store, the existing offices were reduced and a sit-in counter was installed to create a relaxed setting in which to entertain customers. Incidentally, the stools’ custom seat plates feature furoshiki designs that can be found in the store. Torafu also transformed the once underused courtyard into a space to hold events or gatherings on clear days by placing a picnic table made by Ishinomaki Laboratory under a tarp roof. The decision to use the store itself as a showcase, helped in making the most of its compact interior, while also contributing a touch of color to the street.

Misubi, Shibuya, Tokyo
Program: shop
Architects: Torafu Architects
Graphics: Takaiyama
Area: 88 sqm
Completion: 2015