I've been really intrigued lately by luxury retail and flagship architecture – specifically how brands use pop-ups and flagship stores as architectural statements around the world.
Just got back from Tokyo studying three buildings in Aoyama. Even though these projects are from the early 2010s-2010s, the architectural approach still feels incredibly relevant today.
**What stood out:**
Kengo Kuma's SunnyHills (2013) – takes traditional jiigoku-gumi joinery and scales it to become the entire building. Structure IS facade IS interior. The way light filters through the 3D timber lattice creates this remarkable soft atmosphere.
Herzog & de Meuron's Prada Aoyama (2003) – complete transparency. Parametric glass facade. The building itself becomes the display window.
Herzog & de Meuron's Miu Miu (across the street) – totally different strategy. Metal canopy creating mystery instead of openness.
Fun fact: the Miu Miu facade really reminded me of HdM's approach in Miami with 1111 Lincoln Road – seems like they were exploring similar ideas about canopy/overhang as primary gesture around the same period.
I also put together a detailed breakdown with some thoughts:
What are your favorite flagship stores in Tokyo?
by Individual_Iron174