Where Design Reconnects People, Plants, and the Urban Landscape - House, designed by Jindesign Co., Ltd.
In an industry often defined by conformity, where only straight-stemmed, perfectly shaped plants are favored, this project boldly champions a different vision. Here, beauty is found in the unexpected: bent trunks, asymmetrical growth, and those plants typically overlooked by the market are celebrated as central figures. The client’s philosophy turns away from conventional horticultural standards, placing character, resilience, and individuality at the very heart of the enterprise.
Situated along a major artery of logistics and distribution, the project emerges as a lifestyle destination where nature is seamlessly woven into the fabric of daily life. The complex unites a flower shop, retail space, café, plant showroom, and a spacious event hall under one vision. Rather than dividing commerce from experience, the architecture elevates plants as vibrant, living presences, inviting visitors to pause, observe, and rediscover the vitality of the natural world.
The design is rooted in the thoughtful renewal of an existing glass-gabled structure, complemented by the addition of a new building to the rear. In the original building, openness and visual continuity take precedence. Superfluous interior elements are stripped away, and external equipment is relocated, unveiling the full potential of the glass façade. The result is an environment of transparency and effortless flow, where sightlines are uninterrupted and movement feels intuitive. Children wander freely while remaining visible, fostering a sense of security and openness. Outside, a gently sloping lawn merges with the sidewalk, dissolving boundaries and welcoming visitors with a sense of ease.
In contrast, the new building adopts a restrained, linear architectural vocabulary. Crafted from natural materials and shaped by a philosophy of subtraction, it serves as a tranquil backdrop to a symbolic camphor tree, a living centerpiece radiating presence and vitality. The building’s low profile harmonizes with the surrounding residential landscape, while its interior unfolds as an expansive, hall-like space. A subtle palette of soft, light greys allows the greenery to command attention, affirming the architecture’s role as a quiet frame rather than a dominant object.
Between the two buildings, a narrow passageway serves as both connector and sanctuary. Protected from the elements, this outdoor corridor offers a tranquil pause, subtly guiding visitors across the site. The closely positioned entrances foster a seamless flow, reinforcing the walkable and human-scaled spirit of the complex. Beyond its architectural clarity, the project carries its philosophy into the urban realm. The client, personally planting perennial greenery along the sidewalk, allows the landscape to spill beyond property lines and into the city. This simple yet powerful act transforms the site from an isolated destination into a vibrant participant in the community. Further reflecting this ethos, the client proudly serves as an ambassador for Fukuoka City’s One Person, One Flower initiative.
Through a harmonious integration of architecture, landscape, and vision, this project transcends its commercial purpose. It emerges as a semi-public indoor park, a gathering place for families, a sanctuary where nature is observed rather than controlled, and a setting where design gently redefines beauty, value, and the rhythms of everyday life.
Designing a Place Where Nature, Daily Life, and the City Converge
Toyotaka Aoki
Graduated from Kyushu University in 2009, received a master’s degree from Kyushu University in 2011. In 2016, Aoki established his firm, Jindesign Co., Ltd., which is composed of architects, lighting designers and graphic designers. He has worked on a variety of projects in Japan and China, including commercial facilities, housing complexes and medical facilities, as well as public structures. Since 2012, the Fukuoka Architecture Foundation has served as a platform for another architectural activity: introducing and sharing the values of local architecture with the general public.
Designed by Jindesign Co., Ltd. (Japan)
Sky Design Awards 2025 — Bronze Winner, Architecture Division
Jindesign Co., Ltd. (Japan) website: https://www.jindesign.co.jp