Embracing the Natural Setting
Nestled in Kakamigahara City, Gifu Prefecture, the new beauty salon by Studio Velocity celebrates its serene surroundings characterized by waterways and lush greenery. Positioned where the Nagara River and the Kiso River converge, Kakamigahara City is renowned for its natural beauty, boasting landmarks like the “Forest of Learning” and the “Natural Heritage Forest.” Surrounded by this abundance of water and trees, the salon effortlessly integrates with its environment.
Harnessing Local Resources
The salon’s design ingeniously utilizes the area’s rich groundwater, sourced from depths of 20 to 40 meters underground. A well was drilled near the site, tapping into this local resource to create a water basin that reflects the broader water cycle. The basin, filled with free well water, not only nourishes the surrounding “small forest” but also contributes to the salon’s eco-friendly ethos. This green oasis offers privacy to the glass-covered interior space while inviting natural views and sunlight into the salon and its rooftop terrace.
Multifunctional Design
The salon’s first floor is dedicated to essential beauty services, featuring reception and cutting spaces. However, the true innovation lies in the transformation of the large attic space into a multifunctional second-floor terrace. Accessible to both customers and staff, this open-air retreat provides a serene environment for relaxation and rejuvenation. By blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces, the salon fosters a unique experience that transcends conventional beauty salons.
Seamless Integration
The second-floor terrace, known as “Galandou,” epitomizes openness with its absence of walls, inviting in gentle breezes, natural light, and the rustling of plant foliage. The design utilizes wooden braces instead of opaque walls, creating a sense of lightness and openness. By strategically positioning pillars and incorporating diagonal beams, load-bearing walls are eliminated, allowing for uninterrupted spatial flow and a harmonious connection with the natural surroundings.
In essence, the beauty salon in Kakamigahara epitomizes Studio Velocity’s commitment to innovative design that honors and enhances the natural environment, offering patrons a tranquil retreat where beauty and nature converge seamlessly.
