Villa ASO
The Natural Evolution of an Architecture
Villa ASO
The Natural Evolution of an Architecture
Villa ASO, located along Kyuyamate-dori in Daikanyama, is an architecture originally constructed as a private residence in the early Showa era, featuring prominent Art Deco influences. In 1997, this historic structure was transformed into the restaurant and cafe “ASO,” becoming a cherished landmark in Daikanyama.
When tasked with renovating the iconic “ASO,” my objective was not only to enhance its aesthetic appeal but also to address issues such fixing the wear and tear that had developed over time and improving spatial flow. I approached the project by tuning into the natural evolution of the building, allowing it to guide my design choices.
My goal was to preserve the memories of those who hold “ASO,” dear, retaining its essence while updating the overall design. The challenge was to design a new look that seamlessly integrated with people’s existing memories, making it feel like it had always been there. Success would mean people couldn’t remember the old design, feeling the new one had always been part of their memories.
A classical Western-style building with a 300-year-old zelkova tree. Rather than choosing between destroying the building or preserving it, the old building is being transformed into something new while being reanimated in accordance with the breath of the times.
Layers upon layers within the space enhance each other in beauty. The wood sash on the glass door, the antique chair with a new seat, the stone, wood, and brass on the waist-high storage, and the soft fabric finish on the walls are also key features.
Everyone has vibrant memories of ‘ASO.’ It is known that colors in our memory tend to be more vivid than the colors actually were. Similarly, memories, especially those of wonderful moments or places, become more idealized over time. I aimed to meet these expectations by designing a space that harmonizes the future direction of the architecture with the cherished memories people hold.
Marija Mateović
Iva Pejčić
Naoki Goto
Architecture should adapt and enhance its relevance as times change.
Changing your hairstyle dramatically and having it look so good that people can’t remember your old look is the kind of seamless transformation I aimed for. You could also say that memories are refreshed or updated. I want to create that sensation.
A friend who has made a drastic change in her hairstyle is so naturally fit that people around her cannot remember her previous hairstyle.
In Japan, building renewals often boil down to a choice between demolition or preservation.
How to deal with buildings that should be aimed at
Every building has its unique character and history.
I strive to make bold changes that blend seamlessly into the existing structure.
Memories can be vivid. Memories tend to be idealized. When renovating old buildings, it’s crucial to anticipate and exceed these memories.
ASO before renewal
Architecture has its own progression, much like a musical composition. It evolves with the times.
The term “modern” can sometimes hinder the appreciation of classical elements. Many people struggle with expressing classical design due to this overshadowing concept.
Emotional memory of the city
Architects are not researchers. While having some information is necessary, inspiration should be prioritized over extensive research. Creative expression does not only come from historical knowledge.
Inside me, there is both a logical thinker and a creative intuition, each appearing when needed.
Authenticity should be innate and effortless, seeping into every space without deliberate effort. Thus, any space inevitably reflects my unique touch.
The overall vision can shape the details, and other times the details emerge from the whole. In my case, it is more often the latter.
