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May 15, 2015
LOUIS XIII Chapter 9 Ambassador Makoto Tanijiri
LOUIS XIII | Rémy Martin
Ambassador Interview 6
Makoto Tanijiri (Architect)
Maison Louis XIII, a limited-time pop-up at the bar Maduro in Grand Hyatt Tokyo, Roppongi. Like the exquisite spirit it celebrates, a curated group of 13 ambassadors share a deep appreciation for Louis XIII's uncompromising approach to cognac creation. This project, designed to convey the allure of Louis XIII, has now begun. In this sixth ambassador interview, we speak with Makoto Tanijiri, a prominent young architect.
Text by DAI MATSUOPhotographs by TAKAHIRO IGARASHI
Craftsmanship You Can Taste
I tend to respond when I'm asked. As architects, we believe our value is only realized when it's sought after. When I was offered the role of ambassador, I felt I was being asked, and I wanted to respond.
Especially with a spirit as special as Louis XIII. Creating something over time requires immense effort, but once it's complete, the time invested becomes invisible. In today's world, such time-consuming craftsmanship is rarely sustainable. In this context, Louis XIII is a precious existence. It's difficult to convey the sheer effort involved in words, but one sip immediately reveals the years of dedication. It's a cognac that needs no lengthy explanation. True professionals leave no trace of their hand or sweat. Louis XIII embodies this. It appears effortless, yet the labor involved is extraordinary.
Architectural Translation
If Louis XIII were architecture, it would be a 'forest.' It integrates diverse elements: light, tranquility, shadow, the rustling of nature. Its taste holds both gentleness and intensity, a wide spectrum, suggesting broad acceptance and profound depth.
The work of an architect extends beyond merely constructing buildings. It encompasses the city where the building stands, the people who inhabit it... I aspire to be a presence that society consults. Therefore, while practicing architecture, I broaden my perspective to include graphics, fashion, and cuisine, translating these disciplines. I call this 'architectural translation.' In essence, I feel I am translating what kind of cognac Louis XIII is within society. It is truly a creative endeavor. Translation requires constant contemplation. Contemplation leads to perception. When our consciousness is directed toward something, we perceive it. Stars forming constellations is precisely this. Thinking about thinking. Then, an idea strikes. For those who don't think, inspiration doesn't simply 'arrive.'
A Spirit That Moves the Soul
When things progress, pausing to observe reveals what has been overlooked. Louis XIII, I believe, is a prime example. It endures because of a consistent commitment to time-honored craftsmanship. And, quite simply, it is delicious. That is paramount. It's not delicious simply because it's expensive; I believe there's a fundamental deliciousness that humans universally recognize. While it is certainly not an inexpensive cognac, the satisfaction it provides far exceeds its price. Its value is immense.
Louis XIII possesses a certain strategic quality. Creating something is also about designing how people will feel. In architecture, a beautiful space alone doesn't evoke emotion. It must move the heart before the mind understands. And Louis XIII moved my heart. It's a winemaking process that understands how to stir human emotions. I sense such a high level of design and creativity in this cognac.
Makoto Tanijiri
Born in Hiroshima in 1974. Became independent in 2000, establishing the architectural design firm Suppose Design Office. Primarily focusing on residences, he has undertaken numerous cutting-edge architectural projects, with his work spanning commercial spaces, exhibition designs, landscapes, products, and art installations. He has received numerous awards, including the 'Living Environment Design Award.' His creative designs are highly acclaimed across a wide range of fields, including large-scale installations at Milan Design Week. Currently based in Hiroshima and Tokyo, he has numerous projects underway both domestically and internationally.