Hotel Koo

Architecture Yoshiji Takehara/Moo Architect Workshop

Architecture Yoshiji Takehara/Moo Architect Workshop

The seven old machiya townhouses that form the hotel were each constructed using traditional Japanese methods and include a courtyard.

While preserving as much of the original craftsmanship as possible—such as the latticework that showcases the skills of artisans of the time—new elements have been carefully added to the hotel’s seven structures, recreating design details commonly found in historic machiya. The buildings all blend seamlessly into the timeless townscape, but also include a playful, modern Scandinavian design and unexpected features like a catwalk.

Interior design ＋Rogoba

A fusion of traditional Japanese architecture and Scandinavian furniture and lights define spaces that are rooted in tradition but offer a contemporary feel.

Though the design varies from structure to structure, all original elements, such as transoms, handrails, doors, and tokonoma alcoves, have been carefully restored. The entire facility feels like an homage to Scandinavian design. Still variety abounds. While one of the hotel’s buildings features dark-colored interiors accented with vividly colored furniture, creating an atmosphere of dignified poise, another is designed with bright pops of color to welcome families with young children.