Sharing the Sentiments of Celebrities and Showcasing its Beautiful Appearance

Completed in 1962, the Hotel Okura Tokyo is one of the finest existing examples of Japan's modernist architectural movement. The vision of founder Kihachiro Okura, architect Yoshiro Taniguchi, and numerous artisans supporting Japanese craftsmanship, it was a space where Japanese tradition and modernism were harmoniously fused. Last September, the Hotel Okura Tokyo announced its redevelopment, anticipating events such as the Tokyo Olympics. It is still fresh in our memory how many prominent figures, both domestically and internationally, voiced their hopes for the preservation of this historic and beautiful building.



One of these was Tomas Maier, the Creative Director of Bottega Veneta, an Italian brand embodying craftsmanship, and a long-time admirer of architecture. Upon learning of the hotel's impending demolition, he initiated this project in November of last year.

The first phase involved a collaboration with the magazine 'Casa Brutus' for a special issue on Japanese modernist architecture, as well as a symposium held at the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa. Panelists deeply interested in architectural preservation discussed various buildings facing demolition.

Many Celebrities, Including Marc Newson, Also Show Their Support

The second phase, a website celebrating the Hotel Okura Tokyo, was launched in mid-June. Currently, it features comments and video messages from Maier, architect Toshiko Mori, designer Marc Newson, and contemporary artist Hiroshi Sugimoto, among others, alongside views of the Hotel Okura Tokyo's exquisite appearance.

Furthermore, since last year, a project has been underway inviting people to share their moments at the Hotel Okura Tokyo on Instagram using the hashtag #MyMomentAtOkura. Soon, selected photos from this project will be transformed into unique illustrations, celebrating the beauty of the Hotel Okura Tokyo and widely sharing the cherished memories of this beloved hotel.

'The Hotel Okura is the result of a unique and creative collaboration. By honoring this collaboration, we hope that its timeless beauty will be passed down and cherished for generations to come,' says Maier. The special site also showcases several other Japanese architectural works that he admires, in addition to the Hotel Okura Tokyo. It reminds us anew of the beauty of the buildings and spots that we often overlook in our daily lives.


TRIBUTE TO AN ARCHITECTURAL COLLABORATION
http://www.bottegaveneta.com/jp/special/okura


Bottega Veneta Japan
0120-60-1966