Yasukawa Hair Salon by Koyori: A Harmonious Blend of Tradition and Modern Design

Located in the heart of Kyoto, Yasukawa Hair Salon by Koyori is a meticulously designed space that celebrates the region’s architectural heritage while embracing contemporary aesthetics. This intimate 35 m² salon harmonizes traditional craftsmanship with modern functionality, offering an inviting and serene environment that enhances the well-being of its visitors.

A Design Rooted in Tradition

The salon is housed within a historic building, where the design team sought to preserve and enhance its original character. By integrating traditional earthen flooring as a key element, the space evokes a deep sense of connection to Kyoto’s cultural identity. The interior composition respects the existing structure while introducing a modern spatial arrangement that balances authenticity with innovation.

Spatial Experience and Natural Harmony

One of the defining features of Yasukawa Hair Salon is its vertically expansive layout, achieved through high ceilings and oversized architectural elements. The openness of the space is further emphasized by natural light, which filters gently through the salon, creating a dynamic interplay of light and shadow that evolves throughout the day. This ever-changing ambiance enhances the salon’s tranquil atmosphere, offering visitors a multi-sensory experience of relaxation and comfort.

Minimalist Aesthetic and Materiality

The design approach focuses on simplicity and refinement, stripping away unnecessary elements to highlight the beauty of natural materials. The existing structural framework is deliberately exposed, while all other surfaces are finished in white earthen plaster, creating a seamless and serene backdrop. This minimalist approach not only ensures functional efficiency but also fosters an environment that encourages relaxation and mindfulness.

A Space that Transcends Time

Yasukawa Hair Salon is more than just a place for hairstyling; it is a community-oriented space that carries the history of its surroundings while introducing a new dimension of beauty and healing. By embracing traditional Japanese craftsmanship and seamlessly integrating contemporary design principles, the salon becomes a place that bridges generations, preserving Kyoto’s architectural legacy while catering to modern sensibilities.

All Photographs are works of Junichi Usui