Blending tradition and modern comfort in the heart of Kyoto.
Overview
Studio Aluc has reimagined a 100-year-old Kyoto machiya into the Nazuna Higashihonganji ryokan, a tranquil retreat that harmonizes traditional craftsmanship with contemporary hospitality. Situated directly across from the Goei-do Gate of Higashi Honganji Temple, the renovation preserves the building’s cultural heritage while enhancing structural stability and guest experience.
Design Highlights
- Preservation of Historic Elements: Original timber, earthen walls, and reclaimed materials are meticulously maintained, highlighting the building’s layered history.
- Spatial Unity: Two formerly separate wings were connected under one roof, creating a cohesive interior while respecting the machiya’s narrow profile.
- Natural Light & Courtyards: Small courtyard gardens (tsuboniwa) bring daylight into the east wing, complementing the preserved earthen floor (doma) in the west wing.
- Dining & Lounge: Strategically positioned adjacent to courtyards to maximize natural illumination and create serene gathering spaces.
- Inventive Spatial Solutions: Duplex rooms spanning two floors and staircases crafted from tansu (traditional chests of drawers) combine functionality with historical narrative.
- Architectural Details: Visitors encounter steep machiya stairs, high sloped ceilings, and low-hanging beams—testaments to traditional carpentry.
Experience
By honoring the machiya’s historical essence while integrating modern comforts such as open-plan dining and hinoki baths, Studio Aluc’s renovation offers a living exploration of Kyoto’s architectural heritage. Guests can enjoy a retreat where history, craftsmanship, and contemporary luxury seamlessly coexist.
