Located in Fukuromachi, adjacent to the bustling Omimachi Market, Soki Kanazawa stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Japanese design. Drawing inspiration from the concept of "The Bare Vessel," the hotel invites guests to reconnect with themselves and their surroundings. The use of raw materials—wood, stone, clay, and iron—alongside gentle curves, creates a seamless flow between spaces, evoking a sense of unity and tranquility deeply rooted in the local landscape.
The hotel's unique character is defined by its commitment to local craftsmanship and sustainability. By sourcing materials and collaborating with artisans from the region, Soki Kanazawa not only supports the local economy but also fosters a sense of place. The minimalist interiors, adorned with the traditional Kaga Gosai color palette—indigo, carmine, ochre, grass green, and ancient purple—reflect a harmonious blend of heritage and innovation. This approach has resulted in a calm, inviting atmosphere that encourages guests to engage with the culture and history of Kanazawa.
Technological innovation is subtly woven into the fabric of the hotel. The reception area features an "araidashi" tiled floor, a nod to Kanazawa's traditional stone-laying technique, while modern conveniences such as multilingual check-in machines streamline the guest experience. The public bath, inspired by the famed Kaga Onsen, and the restaurant, which highlights seasonal local ingredients, further immerse visitors in the region's rich traditions.
Soki Kanazawa's eight-storey structure houses 130 rooms across 12 types, catering to solo travelers, families, and groups alike. Each space is thoughtfully designed to maximize comfort while minimizing environmental impact. The hotel's environmentally conscious practices, including waste reduction and the use of sustainable materials, underscore its dedication to responsible hospitality.
Extensive research into Kanazawa's history, materials, and culinary heritage informed every aspect of the design. The project team aimed to create a place that not only welcomes travelers but also gives back to the community. The result is a hotel that serves as both a cultural ambassador and a modern sanctuary, earning recognition with a Bronze A' Design Award for its ingenuity and positive impact.
Soki Kanazawa exemplifies how thoughtful design can bridge the past and present, offering guests a meaningful connection to local culture while championing sustainability and innovation in hospitality. This approach sets a new standard for hotels seeking to enrich both their guests' experiences and the communities they inhabit.
Project Designers: UDS Ltd.
Image Credits: IMAGE CREDITS:
Image #1 to #5:Photographer Daisuke Shima,2022
Project Team Members: Developer: Daiwa House Realty Mgt.Co., Ltd.
Planning, Design, and Operation: UDS Ltd.
Interior Design: DAIKEI MILLS, Keisuke Nakamura, Koki Kumagai, Masato Iwasaki
Graphic Design: desegno Ltd.
Artworks : hakujitu, Kanto Iwamura
Producer :UDS Ltd., Yusaku Takahashi
Design Director: UDS Ltd., Tetsuya Akaiwa, Shoya Nomoto
Creative Direction: UDS Ltd., Kumiko Fujisawa, Mao Sawada
Project Name: Soki Kanazawa
Project Client: SOKI KANAZAWA