Introduction to Meet Tree
Naruse Inokuma Architects embarked on a unique endeavor: the design of a flagship store in Ginza for Meet Tree, a brand specializing in sweets and cosmetics. Meet Tree is distinctively managed by a lumber company based in Nakatsugawa, Gifu Prefecture, renowned for its production of hinoki cypress.
Showcasing Kiso Hinoki
The Kiso River basin, encompassing Nakatsugawa, stands as a bastion of hinoki cypress cultivation in Japan. Notably, Kiso hinoki, a variant of natural hinoki, holds significant cultural importance and is utilized in the periodic rebuilding of the revered Ise Shrine. Meet Tree’s parent lumber company, with a legacy spanning over a century, envisioned the store as a platform to introduce innovative products derived from their cherished hinoki stockpile, aiming to foster a deeper appreciation for domestic hinoki among the masses.
Design Concept: Harmonizing with Nature
Situated in the prestigious Ginza district, the single-story store boasts a generous ceiling height of 5.3 meters, offering an ideal canvas for architectural expression. Embracing the essence of Nakatsugawa’s hinoki forests, the design features a sprawling wooden roof, evoking a verdant canopy. Two majestic vaults, constructed from 105mm x 105mm hinoki timber, gracefully float above the lush green interior, imparting a sense of strength and weightlessness amidst the urban landscape.
Functional Elegance: Vaults as Spatial Dividers
Each vault delineates distinct zones within the store, with one dedicated to sweets and the other to cosmetics. Crafted from Nakatsugawa hinoki, these trapezoidal-shaped elements are meticulously assembled using long screws, supported by slender steel columns and rear walls. The result is a captivating fusion of form and function, where visitors are enveloped in an immersive forest-like ambiance while perusing the curated offerings of Meet Tree.
Conclusion: A Tribute to Tradition and Innovation
Meet Tree Store stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of hinoki cypress and the innovative spirit of its custodians. Through thoughtful design and meticulous craftsmanship, it transcends the traditional retail experience, inviting patrons to immerse themselves in a harmonious blend of nature and commerce.
