United Cinemas Fukuoka Momochi: A Cinema Complex Designed for Sophistication and Luxury

Creating a Cinematic Experience Like No Other

The cinema complex is strategically situated in Fukuoka, a large metropolitan city known for its highly sophisticated residents and visitors. United Cinemas recognized the need to create a cinema complex that would cater to the discerning tastes of the people in this city. The designers aimed to make the cinema complex loved by those with a high sense of style and elegance.

The fourth floor of the complex is designed with the concept of "the sky" in mind. The goal was to create a space that would make guests feel like they are in outer space. This unique approach adds an element of wonder and excitement to the movie-watching experience.

One of the standout features of United Cinemas Fukuoka Momochi is its high ceiling, reminiscent of a cathedral, which allows natural light to pour into the lobby. The vast volume of space creates a sense of silence and solemnity, setting the stage for a truly immersive cinematic experience.

To dispel the old-fashioned image of Japanese movie theaters, the designers incorporated materials and lighting techniques not typically seen in cinemas. The goal was to create a space that would feel calm and luxurious, akin to a high-end hotel. Unlike countries like the United States or Korea, where watching movies is a common pastime, the Japanese audience is still warming up to the idea. United Cinemas aimed to make the experience of watching a movie a small, special event, elevating it to a superior level.

The design team, led by Kunihisa Akiyama, collaborated with various entities to bring this project to life. Interior designers Makoto Tanijiri and Ai Yoshida, along with SUPPOSE DESIGN OFFICE Co., Ltd. for graphic and sign design, architect Hironobu Imamura, mechanical and electrical engineer Nao Uda, and lighting designers Shinji Yamaguchi and Yayoi Aota, all played a crucial role in realizing this unique cinema complex.

The cinema complex boasts 11 screens with a total capacity of 1,674 seats. It includes one screen for 4DX, another for Screen X, two screens for live theater performances, and seven screens for traditional movie projection. The complex also features two backstage dressing rooms, a projection room, and backrooms for staff.

United Cinemas Fukuoka Momochi is located in a shopping center in an exclusive residential area close to the coast of Fukuoka. The area offers not only the cinema complex but also a baseball dome with a capacity of 38,500 people and two adjacent tower apartments, providing a range of entertainment options for visitors.

The project commenced in 2016 and was completed in 2019. Throughout the design process, the team focused on controlling the gaze of visitors, ensuring a seamless and immersive experience. The arrangement of top-lighting, with artificial light imitating natural light, was carefully considered to create a cozy and comfortable atmosphere.

United Cinemas Fukuoka Momochi has received recognition for its outstanding design. In 2019, it was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category. This prestigious award is bestowed upon designs that exhibit strong technical and creative skills, contributing to improvements in quality of life.

United Cinemas Fukuoka Momochi is a testament to the power of design in creating unique and memorable experiences. With its sophisticated ambiance, luxurious features, and attention to detail, this cinema complex sets a new standard for movie-watching in Japan.