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Situated in Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture, the new store of the beauty salon “toiro/h” embodies the concept of diverse individuality and brilliance. Izumo is renowned for Izumo Taisha, one of Japan’s leading shrines, nestled amidst mountains that offer picturesque views of layered clouds, influencing the area’s name.
Architecture Inspired by Nature
Architect Takashi Ago drew inspiration from Izumo’s natural landscape, particularly the phenomenon of overlapping shadows created by layered clouds. Seeking to replicate this soft, swaying effect, Ago synchronized the architecture with nature. Drawing further inspiration from Izumo Taisha’s significance as a matchmaking shrine adorned with a massive shimenawa (sacred rice-straw rope), Ago incorporated a 1300m-long, 12mm white rope twisted with thin resin fibers into the salon’s design.
Symbolism in Design
The rope, reminiscent of the act of “tying” at the shrine, is strategically tied to the ground at irregular intervals and bent at varying angles, resembling a folding screen. Knots filled with local crushed stone create the illusion of floating above the ground. Both the exterior and interior feature the same materials, blurring the distinction between inside and outside. This ambiguity is enhanced by the use of mirrors to create imaginary reflections, adding depth to the space. Within the bleached interior, visitors’ individual “colors” are accentuated, reflecting the salon’s theme of celebrating diverse identities.
Harmonizing Nature and Architecture
toiro/h Beauty Salon in Izumo seamlessly integrates elements of nature and architecture, creating a space that resonates with the surrounding landscape. Through thoughtful design choices and symbolic elements inspired by Izumo’s cultural and natural heritage, the salon offers visitors a unique and immersive experience, inviting them to embrace their individuality amidst a backdrop of serene beauty.
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