All Photography by Atsushi Nakamichi
OMO5 Kumamoto by Hoshino Resorts by Tatsuro Sasaki Architects
Kumamoto City, Japan
This hotel is located in the centre of the city, overlooking Kumamoto Castle, the symbol of the city.
Keep reading to learn more about this project that won Best of Globe at our 2023 Design Awards!
This project stands out as something distinct, and the common area's design, in particular, captures my admiration. I have a particular fondness for the screen design next to the escalator – it's understated yet remarkably elegant."
Karen Wong / Design Director & Partner at ArchitectureFARM
The public space has a three-dimensional deck terrace that connects the inside and outside.
The deck terrace is planned as a new topography to connect the bustle of the city and the scenery of Kumamoto Castle with the hotel, and the exterior terrace extends into the interior space.
This project exudes a distinctly Japanese character within the interior detailing and material palette. The interior radiates a warmth thanks to rich textural overlays and the thoughtful use of lighting to accentuate and highlight particular elements. Notably, the projection in the foyer, which mirrors the surrounding landscape, is a lovely touch. There's a wealth of clever and inventive solutions woven into this project."
Amanda Moore / Associate Principal - Interior Design at Wardle
I find many parts of this project very striking visually. The lobby, in particular, is truly stunning, with its exquisite detailing and an inviting warmth that exudes a sense of calm."
Anthony Orasi / Partner at iN STUDIO
What sets this project apart is its ingenious utilisation of materials, clever play with lighting, and a profound connection to its locale. Despite what I strongly suspect were budget constraints, what impressed me the most was their remarkable sensitivity to material selection and their brilliant execution of these materials in a coherent narrative."
Rachita Khanna / Associate Director, Design at SWBI Architects
Brick tile walls with an image of expressive red soil, stone pavements of castles, tiles of Kumamoto Castle that were turned into rubble by the earthquake, red gradation carpets that are unique to the region. It expresses the locality while using resources that are unique to this place.
One aspect that stood out significantly to me was the project's unwavering commitment to sustainability. However, what sets this project apart is its exceptional connection to a specific historic site across the street. The deliberate selection of materials, textures, and shapes seamlessly integrates with the site's context.
A unique selection of elements consistently permeates the entire building. It's not just about a single space; it's a holistic approach. The clever vertical layout, seamlessly connecting the street and elevating the experience, left a lasting impression, especially the flooring design, which exudes intricate details throughout.
Another standout feature was the staircase with illuminated steps, a refreshing departure from traditional lighting. The V-shaped rays of light that interact with artwork and wall designs added depth to the project's intricacy and connectivity. The intertwining mechanical staircases further reinforced this theme of complexity and cohesion, contributing to a delightful design.
The lobby's projected pattern of light struck me as innovative, dynamic, and intelligent in its execution. The project's narrative, story, and experiential elements were crystal clear, making it a compelling choice for my vote."
Fernando Zabala / Design Director at Gensler LATAM
