The Warehouse: A Futuristic Chapel in Yokohama

Blending History and Innovation

Inspired by the iconic red brick warehouses that symbolize Yokohama, Sugiyama aimed to create a space that feels like a reconstructed version of these historic structures. The challenge was to capture the essence of the past while infusing it with a sense of modernity befitting a 21st-century metropolis.

To achieve this, the design team constructed a space using stacked materials such as stones, bricks, and wood, reminiscent of the warehouse's construction. This blend of warm, natural elements with mirror materials creates a captivating juxtaposition of hard and soft, antique and futuristic. The inclusion of a waterfall at the entrance adds an expressive touch, giving the space a unique character.

By incorporating mirrors that reflect the horizon in a continuous design, the team successfully established a connection between the past and the future. Despite the strong futuristic impression created by the inorganic materials, the use of locally sourced materials ensures a connection to the surroundings, creating a dimension that transcends time.

Completed in August 2016 in Yokohama, Japan, The Warehouse stands as a testament to the city's rich history and its forward-thinking approach. It provides a versatile and non-traditional space for weddings and other public events, catering to the needs of a diverse and modern society.

This innovative design has garnered recognition and acclaim, receiving the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2017. This prestigious award honors designs that demonstrate outstanding creativity and resourcefulness, incorporating best practices in art, science, design, and technology. The Warehouse exemplifies these qualities, contributing to the improvement of quality of life and making the world a better place.