Atelier Write's Unravel: A Dynamic Hair Salon in Tokyo
The Japanese studio Atelier Write has crafted a unique and innovative hair salon in Tokyo's Kiyosumi Shirakawa district. Named Unravel, this space is a testament to the studio's ability to transform industrial warehouses into dynamic and functional environments. The project's key feature is a series of industrial rails that allow the entire space to be reconfigured, making it adaptable for various activities, from haircuts to seminars and retail pop-ups.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Unravel is the use of suspended mirrors and shelves. By mounting these on ceiling-mounted rails, Atelier Write has created a system that allows the space to transform dynamically. The three large hanging mirrors, which integrate galvanised steel worktops with plug sockets, can be pulled into the centre of the interior to define the central salon area or pushed to the outer edges when a more open space is required. This flexibility is a game-changer for hair salons, allowing for a more versatile and adaptable space.
To soften the predominantly metal palette, the warehouse's framework was painted a pastel shade of green. This was complemented by full-height curtains in pastel pink-toned mesh fabric, which can be used to close off the VIP and spa areas. The salon's other pieces of furniture, including green steel shelving and low, cubic tables made from timber, were designed to be industrial in character and easily movable. This blend of materials and colours creates a harmonious and inviting atmosphere, a far cry from the typical sterile image of a hair salon.
The large shutter opening of the warehouse was retained and filled with full-height panes of glass, sheltered by a corrugated metal canopy above. A green-painted steel staircase leads to a studio space on the warehouse's first floor, the surfaces of which have been left in their raw, unfinished state. This raw, industrial aesthetic is a nod to the building's history as a warehouse, and it adds to the overall charm and character of the space.
Atelier Write's founder, Takuya Sakamoto, has a strong background in architecture, having previously worked at Nihon Sekkei and Schemata Architects. His experience is evident in the thoughtful design and execution of Unravel. The project is a testament to the studio's ability to create functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces that blend seamlessly with their surroundings.
Unravel is a prime example of adaptive reuse, where a warehouse is transformed into a dynamic and functional space. It showcases the potential of industrial buildings to be reimagined and repurposed for modern uses. The project's success lies in its ability to create a space that is both functional and visually appealing, a space that encourages a reciprocal relationship between the salon and the city.
In my opinion, Unravel is a masterpiece of modern architecture and design. It showcases the potential of industrial spaces to be transformed into dynamic and versatile environments. The use of suspended mirrors and shelves is a brilliant innovation that allows for a more adaptable and functional space. The blend of materials and colours creates a harmonious and inviting atmosphere, a far cry from the typical sterile image of a hair salon. Unravel is a must-visit for anyone interested in modern architecture and design, and it is a testament to the creativity and innovation of Atelier Write.
