Taiko-En: A Harmonious Blend of Tradition and Innovation

Atsuhiko Sugiyama's Award-Winning Shrine Design

The inspiration for Taiko-En stems from Japan's ancient times when red was considered a sacred color with mystical powers. The design incorporates simplified "Torii" structures, which are gates to a Shinto shrine. These gates symbolize the entrance to a fantasy world from daily life, and it is believed that wishes may come true when one "passes" through these gates.

What sets Taiko-En apart is its unique interpretation of a traditional Japanese shrine. The design preserves the history of Taiko-En, a Japanese temple with about 100 years of history, while also creating a space for new history to be made through traditional wedding ceremonies. The design is a harmonious blend of the old and the new, offering a modern take on a traditional concept.

The design realization of Taiko-En is a testament to Sugiyama's innovative approach. Red torii structures are arranged in a row, surrounding the room. The emphasis on the red color, an elegant and deep Japanese red, creates a grand and mysterious space. The design also incorporates nature, a key element in Japanese culture, by placing the temple in a natural setting and building a connection with the garden visible from the front window.

The design of Taiko-En was not without its challenges. The main challenge was to build a space composed almost entirely of torii. While preserving history was important, there was a risk of losing value when combining history with a modern design. However, Sugiyama successfully overcame this challenge by designing a space that preserves history while also providing a modern feeling.

Taiko-En, completed in September 2015 in Osaka-shi, Osaka, Japan, is a testament to Sugiyama's creativity and expertise. This design, which was awarded the Silver A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2017, showcases a remarkable level of excellence and introduces positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.