Okuwada Architects' "Mook": A Unique Blend of Architecture and Diversity

Unveiling the Award-Winning Salon Design Inspired by the Streets of Nakazakicho

The "Mook" salon is located on the ground floor of a building in Nakazakicho, a town known for its terraced houses, low-rise apartments, and narrow, curved alleyways. These alleyways serve as a connection between the people and the local community. Okuwada Architects took inspiration from these alleyways to create a space that blends seamlessly with the street and the diverse town scenery.

The salon's unique properties lie in its cave-like design, which extends from the street to the back of the building. This design allows light to pass through, illuminating the salon's interior. The facade of the salon is designed to blend in with the street, creating a harmonious connection with the surrounding environment.

The salon's interior is made up of untimbered oak panels, each with an uneven face. This unevenness not only adds depth to the interior but also absorbs the light from the outside, allowing it to penetrate deep into the room. This innovative use of light and space won the salon the Silver A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2021.

The design process was not without its challenges. Working with uneven oak was time-consuming due to the varying thicknesses, lengths, and smoothness of the wood. However, the end result was worth the effort, with the completed design reflecting the natural beauty of unevenness and diversity.

The "Mook" salon is more than just a hair salon. It is a testament to the power of innovative design and the role it can play in reflecting and enhancing the diversity of a community. As Okuwada Architects have demonstrated, architecture can be a powerful tool for connecting people and communities.

The salon operates under the management of the salon owner and staff, with five mirrors adding to the overall design. The glass facade reflects the activity of the salon in the city, making the movement of people part of the design. This innovative design approach not only enhances the salon's aesthetic appeal but also creates a dynamic and engaging environment for both the staff and the customers.