Asakusarokku

The project is located on a corner in Taoyuan District in a building that is over forty years old. The design is inspired by the owner's passion for Taisho-era culture—a unique period that merged traditional Japanese aesthetics with Western luxury. Unlike conventional Japanese spaces characterized by tatami and paper screens, this project precisely captures the spirit of Westernization in the Taisho period. Centered on the atmosphere of the era, the design is developed through careful consideration of color, materials, and spatial composition. Within the space, one can observe both the delicate spirit of Yamato and the splendid artistic expressions of Western influence, creating a serene bar that feels both unfamiliar and yet distinctly familiar.

An octagonal space that defies conventional symmetry presented both a design challenge and a creative opportunity. Starting from scratch, the designer carefully measured every angle and turn to allow the bar counter to naturally follow the building’s exterior contours, forming a striking visual focal point for incoming guests. Directly across the entrance is a display wine wall that enables guests to be seated without having to traverse long corridors or awkward dead ends. Due to the complex original structure of beams and columns, the ceiling was reimagined using open wood partitions; rather than hiding the architecture, these details contribute a rhythmic character that further enriches the space's layered experience.

Another standout element is the integrated, multi-functional concept of the space. In addition to the bar, a small kitchen offers a light meal, a gallery-style art wall provides a cultural touchpoint, and a dedicated tarot area adds a dash of mystique. Each area has been carefully designed to evoke a sense of calm and contemplation, perfectly aligning with the owner’s vision for a quiet, intimate drinking experience. This isn’t a boisterous, crowded pub—it’s a place where one can sit alone, gaze thoughtfully out the window, and savor moments of introspection. The red logo wall and custom illuminated sign were both handcrafted by the designer, imbuing the venue with a delicate yet strong expression of its brand identity.