Cave Bar: A Unique Blend of Nature and Design

Highlighting the Beauty of Nature in a Japanese Ryokan

The inspiration for the Cave Bar came from the image of a stalactite cave. While caves may initially evoke a sense of fear, the beauty that nature creates over time is undeniably captivating. Imafuku and his team wanted to recreate this allure by turning the cave into a space that would attract and enchant guests. The icicle-like glass lightings, resembling stalactites, softly illuminate the cave, creating a mysterious and alluring ambiance.

What sets the Cave Bar apart from other designs is its seamless integration with nature. The bar is located within the grounds of a ryokan, exclusively for the guests staying at the hotel. The untouched cave, once abandoned by its previous owner, remained hidden and undiscovered. However, when Imafuku and his team stumbled upon it, they couldn't resist the idea of transforming it into an outdoor bar that would showcase the beauty of the natural surroundings.

The realization of the design involved utilizing the existing walls and ceiling of the cave, while applying mortar to the floor. The bar counter is made of stainless steel and glass, while the standing tables outside are made of FRP. The LED lights inside the original glass lights, the bar counter, and the standing tables can be programmed to change color over time. The cave is adorned with 48 hand-blown icicle glass lights in three different heights, creating a mesmerizing visual display.

The Cave Bar covers an area of 26.72 sq.m and reaches a height of approximately 3 meters at its highest point. Its location in Ishikawa, Japan, adds to the allure, as guests can enjoy their drinks while overlooking the bay.

One of the challenges faced during the design process was striking the delicate balance between design and nature. The goal was to highlight the beauty of the natural surroundings without overpowering them. Too much design would detract from the simplicity and elegance of the cave, while too little would result in a lackluster experience. Imafuku and his team successfully achieved this balance, creating a space that seamlessly blends design and nature.

As a self-service bar, guests staying at the ryokan have the freedom to make their own drinks and enjoy them outside, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the bay.

The Cave Bar project began in July 2016 and was completed in August 2016. The design has garnered recognition and was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2017 for its well-designed, practical, and innovative approach. This award recognizes designs that meet professional and industrial requirements while contributing to a better world.

The Cave Bar is a testament to the power of design to enhance and showcase the beauty of nature. With its unique blend of natural elements and sophisticated design, it offers guests an unforgettable experience in the heart of Japan.