Wavy Stillness: A Unique Combination of Luxury Cafe and Sports Bar

Combining Hospitality and Entertainment in One Space

The Wavy Stillness is a groundbreaking hospitality establishment designed by Tetsuya Matsumoto that seamlessly combines a luxury cafe and a sports bar in one single space. Located on the fourth floor of a commercial building in Himeji, Japan, this unique design offers a dynamic and versatile experience for patrons.

The inspiration for the Wavy Stillness came from the desire to integrate different typologies of hospitality establishments into a single space. The cafe area draws inspiration from luxurious hotel lobbies, featuring colorful sofas and elegant marble finishes. The sports bar section aims to recreate the cinematic atmosphere of the neighboring movie theater, with 21 TV screens strategically placed throughout the space. Lastly, the bar area references high-end cocktail and wine bars, adding a touch of sophistication to the overall design.

What sets the Wavy Stillness apart is its innovative use of materials and its strategic location. The two outer walls facing the movie theater are completely glazed, providing a stunning view for patrons. The third face of the establishment opens onto a balcony with a direct view of the historical Himeji Castle. The counter wall and part of the ceiling are covered in three-dimensional wavy stainless steel plates, creating a mesmerizing visual effect that changes according to the viewer's angle.

Technically, the Wavy Stillness follows an open plan layout, with minimal walls to allow for a seamless flow of movement. The pillars and surrounding half walls are adorned with luxurious marble, adding a touch of elegance to the space. Custom-made sofas and carefully selected chairs provide comfortable seating options for patrons. The counter back, installed on the kitchen wall, features unique three-dimensional stainless steel panels that mimic the movement of water. The counter itself is made using artificial stone, while the half wall is covered in glass mosaic tiles.

The Wavy Stillness spans a gross built area of 285 square meters, with dimensions of W20722mm x D9437mm x H3000mm. The project commenced in October 2020, and construction began in March 2021, concluding in May 2021. This exceptional design project was realized in Himeji, Japan.

The Wavy Stillness presents a unique challenge of combining two distinct atmospheres - a cafe during the day and a sports bar in the evening. The design successfully navigates this challenge by creating a hybrid space that seamlessly transitions between the two. The wavy three-dimensional stainless steel sheet behind the counter adds a dynamic element to the design, reflecting the establishment's versatility. Additionally, the arrangement of 21 screens allows for public viewing events, enhancing the sports bar experience.

The Wavy Stillness has garnered recognition for its exceptional design. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2022. This prestigious award celebrates designs that demonstrate creativity, resourcefulness, and a commitment to improving the quality of life through art, science, design, and technology.

With its innovative concept, stunning aesthetics, and seamless integration of different hospitality typologies, the Wavy Stillness sets a new standard for luxury cafes and sports bars. It offers patrons a unique and unforgettable experience, combining the best of both worlds in one captivating space.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Tetsuya Matsumoto
Image Credits: Image #1: photographer ©Stirling Elmendorf, WavyStillness, 2021. Image #2: photographer ©Stirling Elmendorf, WavyStillness, 2021. Image #3: photographer ©Stirling Elmendorf, WavyStillness, 2021. Image #4: photographer ©Stirling Elmendorf, WavyStillness, 2021. Image #5: photographer ©Stirling Elmendorf, WavyStillness, 2021.
Project Team Members: Tetsuya Matsumoto Motoaki Takeuchi Farid Ziani
Project Name: Wavy Stillness
Project Client: Tetsuya Matsumoto


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