Ishidobashi Shiratsugu is a Japanese restaurant located in Gokushomachi, Fukuoka City. Despite being within walking distance from Hakata Station, the area retains an atmosphere of historic streets and traditional temples. The restaurant owners had been operating out of a renovated two-story building on the same site. However, after much consideration, they decided to construct a new single-story building—smaller in scale but with a heightened focus on quality and spatial density—realizing their vision of creating an ideal environment that extends beyond but includes the cuisine itself.
The site is a narrow, elongated plot, approximately five meters wide, with an angular “L” shape. At the far end, it adjoins a temple, where lush greenery provides a tranquil backdrop. The owners envisioned elements such as machiya (traditional townhouses), alleyways, and tsuboniwa (courtyard gardens), which served as guiding concepts for integrating the building into its surroundings and shaping the interior atmosphere.
A defining feature of the design is the composition of two distinct architectural volumes—one at the front and another at the back—connected by a central entrance. This arrangement creates a narrow, covered passage leading to the interior, evoking the experience of walking through a traditional alley. Adjacent to the entrance, a small courtyard-like space reinforces the connection to nature. Functionally, this entrance acts as a hub, linking the two main sections while minimizing circulation paths, thereby ensuring efficient spatial use.
The exterior reflects a balance between tradition and modern minimalism, considering local zoning regulations on landscape preservation. The roof incorporates ichimonji kawara tiles, ensuring a clean, linear eave detail, while small-format kawara tiles further enhance the scale harmony. The plaster exterior walls, extending from the approach to the eaves, give the structure the appearance of a contemporary kura (storehouse). Meanwhile, the entrance hub is distinctively clad in copper, designed to patinate over time, visually differentiating the volumes while introducing a sense of organic aging.
Inside, the contrast between the pristine white exterior and the warm, textured interior creates a refined spatial composition. Walls are finished with a kakiotoshi (scraped plaster) technique, imparting a natural depth. Above the Japanese cypress counter, a custom-designed washi paper lantern diffuses soft, ambient lighting, defining the space with a warm glow. The open kitchen avoids a sense of enclosure, aligning with the owners’ intent to make the entire dining experience—from preparation to service—an integral part of the atmosphere. Behind the counter, a large, woven rattan sliding door frames a borrowed view of the temple greenery by day, while at night, it transforms into a defining design element. In contrast, the private dining areas are enveloped in linen fabric, establishing a distinct mood separate from the counter space. Paired with low, indirect lighting, this section fosters a calm, intimate setting.
Type of Project: Newly build
Use: Japanese Restaurant
Period: Apr 2022 – Oct 2024
Structure: Wood frame
Scale: 1 Story
Site area: 123.81m2
Building Area: 67.41m2
Floor Area: 65.49m2
Location: Fukuoka, Japan
Design: Koichi Futatsumata, Ai Uchino, Koichi Shimohira(CASE-REAL)
Design Cooperation, Construction: Jikuu-kenchiku-koubou
Lighting Plan: Tatsuki Nakamura (BRANCH LIGHTING DESIGN)
Manufacture of Andon: MIURA SHOMEI
Planting Plan: niwa asobi
Planting Construction: Tamaru Zouen Kensetsu
Photo: Hiroshi Mizusaki