unbirthday Shop by FATHOM – A Space for Playful Growth

Concept & Philosophy

One day out of 365 is a birthday—a singular wedge in time marking growth and celebration. The remaining 364 days, often ordinary, are filled with quiet development, exploration, and discovery. Inspired by this idea, unbirthday Shop, a children's clothing boutique in Naka-ku, Hiroshima, celebrates the magic of everyday life rather than milestones alone.

The design encourages children to explore freely, embrace creativity, and grow naturally, unconfined by rigid structures or conventional barriers. Every element in the boutique is carefully curated to merge functionality, playfulness, and aesthetic simplicity.

Interior Design & Spatial Experience

The interior emphasizes horizontal surfaces, gentle curves, and open layouts. Vertical supports and obstacles are concealed wherever possible, allowing uninterrupted sightlines and a flowing spatial experience.

• Horizontal Lines & Curves: Top panels and organic free-curved wooden elements create continuous surfaces, evoking imagination and play.
• Materials & Details: Copper plate handles, natural wood panels, and transparent glass enhance tactile and visual engagement while reflecting the fluidity of childhood exploration.
• Flexible Spaces: Areas like the kitchen, closet, and bathroom are designed to support both functional needs and spontaneous interactions.

The overall arrangement ensures a sense of openness and freedom, where children can choose and enjoy clothing at their own pace while immersing themselves in an environment that inspires curiosity.

Exterior Design

The existing façade was stripped down to its bare post-and-beam structure and fitted with transparent glass, achieving a light, airy exterior that blends invisibly into the streetscape. This highly transparent façade enhances the connection between the interior and its surroundings, reinforcing a feeling of openness and continuity.

Architecture for Everyday Joy

By eliminating vertical obstructions and embracing flowing lines and organic forms, unbirthday Shop transforms daily experiences into moments of joy and discovery. The space encourages children to grow freely, explore boldly, and add color and change to ordinary—but extraordinary—days.

Unbirthday Shop is a celebration of childhood, creativity, and the everyday magic that fills the 364 uncelebrated days of life.

All Photographs are works of Tatsuya Tabii