TORAFU ARCHITECTS

Nested in the Unzen mountain range, the Kyushu Hotel has become landmark in Nagasaki Prefecture over the last 90 years. Renovating the souvenir shop located in a corner of the lobby presented a challenge that we overcame by proposing a display stand endowed with strong character that met our client’s expectations so that it could accommodate an ever growing number of articles. The furniture piece is inspired by the typical alpine scenery of the region.

The mountain-shaped display is made of four parts and echoes the motif of the majestic Unzen Mountains welcoming the articles on display on its hilly landscape. The mountaintop exceeds an average adult’s height, making it impossible to take in all articles at a glance. This unique setting brings about an enhanced shopping experience by inviting customers to stroll around the mountain as if hiking for souvenirs. We used a medium-density fiberboard, or MDF framework painted in dark brown with a clear coating transparent enough to reveal its grain, conferring depth and a distinguished look to the entire display.

Once they pass the columns and enter the souvenir shop from the hotel’s lobby, patrons are met by a mountain range extending endlessly before their eyes and into the mirrors placed at both ends creating a spacious and refreshing scenery.