World-renowned architect Kengo Kuma does not limit himself to headline-grabbing, mega-scale projects such as his Japan National Stadium or Shibuya Scramble Square. Wakuni Shoten, a new cafe showcasing the work of sheet metal artisans, illustrates his vision for more modestly sized projects.
Around 700 bronze plates – ‘upcycled’ from the former roof of a Shinto shrine in Hiroshima prefecture – cover the striking facade of this premises in west Tokyo’s Higashi-Murayama neighbourhood. Inside, you can check out origami-inspired sheet metal cranes and other objects crafted by local firm Uchino, which tapped Kuma to work on this project. A selection of products is available to purchase.
The interior is also imbued with the touch of fellow artisans including furniture maker Kitaworks and ceramicist Kan Ito, making this a refined yet cosy spot to enjoy coffee specially roasted for the cafe by Okayama-based Kinoshita Shouten. Also on the menu of light bites are cute cookies in the shape of cranes and shiba inu dogs.
Wakuni Shoten may well make this suburb a destination on the global design map: it’s certainly worth the journey off the beaten track.
Text by Darren Gore