SEN & Gallery: A Unique Space for Fashion and Art

A Fusion of Fashion and Art in Osaka

SEN & Gallery is a one-of-a-kind showroom and gallery space in Osaka, Japan, designed by renowned fashion designer Tomonobu Kawakami. This innovative space blurs the lines between fashion, art, and design, providing a platform for creative expression and experimentation.

The concept behind SEN & Gallery revolves around the idea of fluidity and connectivity. The fashion brand SEN, founded by Tomoco Tagawa, aims to create clothing that transcends trends and embraces the natural flow of materials. This philosophy is reflected in the design of the showroom/gallery, where the space itself becomes a medium for dialogue and exploration.

The centerpiece of the space is a curved LGS wall, which not only represents the brand's name but also creates a dynamic and visually striking backdrop. The entrance area features a special identity that changes with each season, showcasing the brand's latest collections and creating a sense of anticipation for visitors.

SEN & Gallery also features bespoke furniture, including tables and hanging systems, where new season items are displayed. The basement serves as a production area, where the latest designs are brought to life before being showcased in the showroom. The use of gas pipes and wires for hangers, as well as layers of mortar plates for the table material, adds a touch of industrial elegance to the space.

In addition to its function as a showroom, SEN & Gallery is designed to host events and collaborations with artists and creators. The central position of the LGS table encourages interaction between customers and retailers, creating a space for discussion over drinks and food. The show window, adorned with a Bonsai Tree, symbolizes the universality of organic materials in clothing and adds a touch of nature to the urban environment.

The project, which began in December 2014 and was completed in October 2015, presented several challenges for the design team. The composition of the LGS wall and the durability of the hanging LGS counter table required extensive testing to ensure their feasibility. However, these challenges were overcome, resulting in a unique and visually stunning space that showcases the brand's ethos and creativity.

SEN & Gallery has received recognition for its exceptional design. In 2017, it was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category. This prestigious award recognizes designs that demonstrate creativity, resourcefulness, and a commitment to improving quality of life through art, science, design, and technology.

SEN & Gallery is a testament to the power of design to transcend boundaries and create spaces that inspire and engage. It is a place where fashion, art, and design converge, inviting visitors to explore the relationship between clothing and the human experience.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Tomonobu Kawakami
Image Credits: Image #1~#5: Photographer Yohei Sasakura, 2015.
Project Team Members: Design: Tomonobu Kawakami Constructor: ie Koubou Logo/Signage Design: Manabu Masuda(a-t-n) Photos: Yohei Sasakura(Sasa-no-Kura-Sya)
Project Name: SEN&GALLERY
Project Client: Tomonobu Kawakami


SEN&GALLERY IMG #2
SEN&GALLERY IMG #3
SEN&GALLERY IMG #4
SEN&GALLERY IMG #5
SEN&GALLERY IMG #5

Read More on Design Radiant