Embracing History and Craftsmanship
Nestled on City Hall Street in Kure City, the HAIKU Hair Salon finds its home in a tenant building that once housed a materials shop. Tasked with transforming this space into a haven for hair care, FATHOM embarked on a journey that celebrated the building’s rich history and architectural remnants. The existing brick tiles adorning the exterior walls and the glass blocks within the passageway stood out as poignant reminders of the past, inspiring the design direction for the salon.
Crafting a Narrative Space
Drawing inspiration from the salon’s namesake, the architects envisioned a space that transcended mere functionality, aiming to weave a narrative around the inherent materials. The modular layout of the space resembled the squares of a manuscript paper, prompting the idea of projecting individuals’ stories onto the uniform grids. This concept sparked the creation of a salon where each patron’s unique essence could be unveiled and celebrated amidst the structured framework.
Fusion of Time Frames
Situated on a corner lot, the building’s facade bore traces of time, with signs, tent marks, and exposed infrastructure adorning its three sides. FATHOM embraced this juxtaposition of past and present by leaving remnants from demolition works exposed, thereby merging two distinct time frames. The new facade fittings, characterized by a horizontal latticework reminiscent of enlarged exterior wall tiles, added a contemporary touch while preserving the building’s historical integrity.
Blending Tradition with Modernity
Inside the salon, a Japanese-inspired aesthetic unfolded, seamlessly blending traditional elements with modern functionality. The concrete skeleton space incorporated Japanese design principles, with the shampoo table adorned with bricks as a nod to the town’s historic brick sidewalks. The gap between the structure and the set-back facade created an open connection to the city, offering a dynamic interplay between public and private realms.
A Space for Community Engagement
Central to the design ethos was the creation of a space that transcended its primary function, evolving into a public gathering spot cherished by the community. Sculptural elements, reminiscent of playground equipment and traditional Japanese garden stones, adorned the open gap, inviting interaction and contemplation. FATHOM envisioned the salon as a place where people of all ages could converge, fostering a sense of connection and belonging within the neighborhood.
Bridging Contrasts
The HAIKU Hair Salon stands as a testament to the harmonious fusion of rugged industrial remnants and delicate Japanese craftsmanship. The interplay of materials, from the weathered exterior to the structured interior, creates a dialogue between contrasting elements, bridging the past with the present in a timeless narrative of design and innovation.
