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Award-Winning Interior Design at Rinn Kyoto Miyagawasuji Hitotose Aki Celebrates Kyoto's Heritage and Craftsmanship

Rinn Kyoto Miyagawasuji Hitotose Aki, designed by Miki Orihara and her team, stands as a testament to the seamless integration of Kyoto's traditional atmosphere with contemporary hospitality. Completed on October 26, 2023, and located in the historic Miyagawa-cho district, this private hotel has been recognized with the prestigious Silver A' Design Award for its exceptional approach to interior design. The project draws inspiration from the subtle interplay of light and shadow described in Junichiro Tanizaki's "In Praise of Shadows," aiming to evoke the unique ambiance of Kyoto's streetscape within each guest room.

The design distinguishes itself through meticulous attention to materials and lighting. Orihara collaborated closely with local washi paper artist Wataru Hatano to incorporate traditional techniques such as kakishibu washi and koyori, ensuring that the hotel's interiors reflect both local craftsmanship and environmental consciousness. Indirect lighting highlights the textures of walls, while the use of Japanese paper mixed with clay, colored paper, and ancient methods like fukuro-bari create a warm, inviting environment that harmonizes with Kyoto's strict landscape regulations.

Overcoming creative and regulatory challenges, the design team balanced preservation of Kyoto's machiya image with innovative comfort solutions for guests, including climate considerations for seasonal extremes. The result is a space that not only welcomes visitors but also encourages them to appreciate the cultural and aesthetic values of Kyoto. Through thoughtful research, collaboration, and a deep respect for tradition, Rinn Kyoto Miyagawasuji Hitotose Aki offers an immersive experience that honors the past while providing modern luxury, making it a model for future hospitality design in historic urban settings.

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