WAKURA

A renovation project of “Wakura” which faces the Mikuma River in Hita City, Oita Prefecture. 

The establishment is housed in an approximately 90-year-old earthen storehouse, designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property. The interior consists of two main sections: the eastern storehouse, which houses the tearoom, and the western storehouse, which has a teppanyaki space and faces the river. This renovation focused on updating deteriorated parts due to aging, with an emphasis on the entrance area and the western storehouse. Through multiple discussions with the client, the fundamental layout and structure remain largely unchanged, while detailed modifications to finishes and openings are made to enhance the overall space while preserving the storehouse’s character.

Specifically, the wooden entrance fixtures have been replaced with glass doors to create an entrance with a simpler feeling. The intricately designed eaves have been simplified to wooden panels, reducing the decorative elements of the approach to increase the anticipation towards the interior. The window frames that previously obstructed the river view have been replaced with single-sided glass doors, maintaining the pitch of the interior pillars. This change offers a clear view of the riverbank from the main counter, a distinctive feature of Wakura. Additionally, the hoods above each counter, while keeping their original bases, have been updated in color and finish to blend with the space, using the same plaster material as the walls. The distinctive undulating walls have been refinished with plaster, preserving their shape and existing stone baseboards, and the floor has been redone with tile that complements the building’s atmosphere.