Design consulting for the renovation of a general merchandise store in Torwest, Kobe, which stocks “cute” items from around the world. The focus was on translating the owner’s clear image into an actual sense of scale, and creating a space that was compatible in design and function without feeling uncomfortable.

To create a minimalist, clean space, white tiles were simply placed to create a sense of brightness and expansion throughout the space. Pink neon signs were reused and incorporated to add accent and novelty to the space while preserving the context. Steel doors were used in the fitting rooms to emphasize the gravity of the space. The linden plywood storage doors were made to order and were designed based on the owner’s requests while maintaining the balance of the space.

We accompanied the owner on the renovation project by designing the room to incorporate his requests and sensibilities, while staying close to the owner’s self-production process. With an emphasis on the owner’s sensibilities, “vi-no” worked as a design consultant and attempted to make suggestions regarding the overall image and materiality.