Printed from : The Leisure Media Co Ltd

17 Feb 2020


Claesson Koivisto Rune Architects convert 1920s Tokyo bank into hotel
BY Stu Robarts

Claesson Koivisto Rune Architects convert 1920s Tokyo bank into hotel

Claesson Koivisto Rune Architects have converted a former 1920s bank building in Tokyo into what they describe as a "micro-complex of creative eateries, bars, gathering spots, and Swedish-minimalism-meets-Japanese-heritage design."

Located in the Nihonbashi Kabutocho area of the city, K5 Tokyo is a hotel with a restaurant, a wine bar, a coffee shop, a cocktail bar and a beer hall.

Its redevelopment took only 14 months from conception through planning and construction, ultimately creating 20 guest rooms, mostly around 40sq m (430sq ft) in size with a ‘Loft’ suite covering 78sq m (840sq ft).

The building retains its exterior architecture, which is described as Western neoclassical with Japanese detailing and proportions, while original elements of the interior – like exposed concrete and a parquet floor – were retained where possible.

Traditional materials such as concrete, cedarwood and Japanese stucco are complemented by custom-designed furniture and accessories.

A lack of greenery in the area, meanwhile, inspired the idea of creating a ‘green oasis’ in K5 Tokyo, with potted plants throughout contributing to a sense of wellness and softening some of the more stark design elements.


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