copper-plated facade enfolds renovated izutsuya gallery in tokyo

Satoshi Itasaka revives century-old Japanese home into gallery

The design labo, led by architect Satoshi Itasaka, takes over the development of Izutsuya Gallery inside a century-old conventional Japanese home in Tokyo. The construction beforehand housing the ‘Izutsuya’ sweets store, endured historic challenges such because the Kanto Earthquake and World Warfare II. Left vacant for about three years, the copper-plated constructing confirmed indicators of ageing amidst city growth. Itasaka initiated the revitalization mission preserving the distinctive mix of Japanese and Western architectural kinds together with the wealthy historic context of the world.

all photos courtesy of the design labo / Satoshi Itasaka

gambrel roof tops the present conventional home’s kind

The constructing contains a gambrel roof, a form that originated in the UK and isn’t sometimes present in Japan. The shape was coated with copper plating, as a sensible response to the historic fires. The inside featured tatami mats and tokonoma alcoves, making a uncommon fusion of architectural kinds. Opposite to the frequent observe of demolishing and remodeling historic buildings into residences or workplace buildings, the design group acknowledged the worth of Izutsuya and initiated a mission for its restoration and preservation.

Izutsuya Gallery

copper-plated facade

tatami mats