Issey Miyake K.N
We started our day off in Omotesando and viewing the different designer stores and the architecture that contain these spaces. First we walked to Nezu Museum by Kuma Kengo. Unfortunately it was closed, but it didn’t stop us from seeing analyzing the architecture and Japan’s historical influence. The roof of the building mimicked the old temples with the extended eaves and the exposure of the structure. Even though Kengo pulled from old temples, he also modernized his design to fit the present. Our next stop was Issey Miyake’s fashion designer showrooms. Issey Miyake is well known for his innovative designs in fashion.
Parda K.N
He was able to integrate architectural principles to clothing for both men and women. The showrooms we saw today realized this theory. His dresses were folded like origami and when it is ready to be worn it unfolds into a fashionable dress. Not only did his clothing mimic the artistic idea of origami, but the folding also allows for more storage in a closet. Japan’s idea of using minimum space is shown through this attribute. After being immersed in the world of Issey Miyake, we visited the Chole and the Prada store designed by Herzog and de Meuron. Prada’s design was very astounding. The spaces felt as if they were created just for the items being sold there. Each level has its own unique layout. Also if you analyze the building and its context close enough, you see subtle moves of the programs integration with the landscape and nature.
Wood exterior K.N
As it was nearing lunchtime we headed to Omotesando Hills by Tadoa Ando. On our way there we visited Tod’s department store designed by Toyo Ito. Since we have seen some of his work already on the trip, it was easy for us to figure it was he design when we stumbled upon it. Yet again, his work was very sublime. You could tell he was able to visualize and interpret every idea he had for the store down to each detail. The accessory cases in the store even mimicked the façade design. We finally made it to our lunch destination in the mall Omotesando Hills. Ando’s thought process is very literal in the circulation of the building. He sets the consumer up by entering into a low procession that sets one up for the central open space that continues the circulation that wraps around the atrium space.
After lunch we went to a community shopping district near our lunch location on Cat Street. Most of us snagged a good deal at a used clothing store called Ragtag. Ragtag sold second hand high quality designers at 1/4 of the retail price. Cat street had a quant and relaxing atmosphere. Following cat street we went to Harajuku street where we ran into the complete opposite atmosphere. Harajuku street was one of the most crowded and touristy sections of Tokyo we have visited yet. We attempted to shop but were discouraged by the crowds and long check out lines. We were all eager to leave this section and began to walk down to another shopping district while observing and discussing architecture. We arrived at our next destination the Audi showroom and observed the design of the showroom's primary space for a few minutes. After viewing the Audi showroom we walked for a bit and found ourselves in one of the most popular shopping areas of Tokyo known as Shibuya. We split up for an hour and a half and went to different department stores of our choice. This district offers the most opportunities for shopping in all of Tokyo and has the busiest crosswalk in the world. Walking across this intersection was a moment we will never forget. Luckily none of us got lost and we all made it on the subway and took two stops to the Meguro station where our hotel is located. We walked to a Korean restaurant where we ordered sea food, steak, vegetables and were able to grill them to our liking on our table.
- Raakhi, Chelsea, Kennedy
(Written by Chelsea and Raakhi)