Opened in 1962, KKS had a long relationship with the design of “Hotel Okura Tokyo” since its foundation. With the redevelopment of the hotel in 2019, we were in charge of the interior design of several banquets and main food and beverage facilities in continuing the legacy of its pristine quality and high end standard with which Okura was built upon through its history and in inheriting both its appreciation of artistic values and in hospitality services.

In reinventing its image, “Tohkarin”, a Chinese restaurant located on the 6th floor of the “Prestige” block, distinctly expresses the theme of “Togenkyou” (based on the utopian Chinese fable of the Peach Blossom Spring), which the restaurant derives its name from, yet at the same time preserving stylistic traits from its former interior in following the tradition since its establishment.

On the 7th floor, are banquet facilities in the style of “English mannerism” which was incorporated during the era of western modernization of Japan as well as in response to the demand for flexibility with the internationalization of Okura as a global hotel operator at that time.

Together with the Sky Chapel, more banquet halls and combination of food & beverage facilities, 41st Floor offers a panoramic view of Tokyo’s skyline and celebrate its rebirth as a hotel brand entering a new epoch of modern and urban lifestyle. The teppanyaki restaurant, “sazanka” epitomizes this fusion of its new skyscraper environment with the upmost sophistication in Japanese arts/craft and cuisine based on the theme of “Pottery & Flame”. Every care in detail has been focused to maximize the effect, both in technical challenge such as in showcasing the cutting-edge kitchen equipment for the open teppanyaki counter with minimal presence of the kitchen hood in order not to obstruct the view and lighting designs specifically to cater for the characteristic high ceiling space.

photo：Hotel Okura Tokyo Co., Ltd

Design concept:

“A space that connects the present with Karuizawa’s memory and grace”In relocating and renovating the former traditional Japanese restaurant, “Karamatsu” at West Karuizawa Prince Hotel, to a site away from the current hotel where the restaurant originally stood, we created a spatial design based on the theme of reviving such fond memory, scenery, and blessings provided by the unique settings of Karuizawa .The “Kamado” style dining which was incorporated into the new design for the restaurant offers an experience in enjoying the richness of Japanese food and culture as well as its graceful past particular to its site setting, paying homage to the vibrant ambience of the wonderful “beam space” of the kitchen typical yet unique to Kiso Kaido Karuizawa-juku, a type of dwelling / accommodation known for the region.

Photo:Forward Stroke Inc.