# MABI Architects Transforms 1983 Osaka Bathhouse Into Modern Men-Only Facility Historic tilework and curved forms are preserved alongside newly integrated wellness amenities. - **Source:** [architecture archives | designboom | architecture & design magazine](https://brifing.si/source/1e716da2-18e6-4704-96a6-818e7860b99f) - **Published:** 2026-10-14 - **Topic:** [Design & UX](https://brifing.si/c/design) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/26e4c290-676b-433c-a5c8-1beab003d7e4 ## Adaptive Reuse of Historic Bathhouse MABI ARCHITECTS has completed the renovation of Enmeiyu, a public bathhouse originally designed by Yoshiji Takehara in 1983. Located in Fukushima-ku, Osaka, the updated venue has been rebranded as Shizunoyu Fukushima, functioning as an exclusive bathing facility tailored specifically for men while respecting its historical footprint. ## Preserving Architectural Heritage The architectural intervention centers on retaining the original building’s defining spatial geometry, emphasizing organic curved forms. By protecting these signature structural lines, the redesign honors Takehara's initial modernist vision, creating continuity between the 1983 layout and the updated contemporary interior requirements. ## Restoration of Original Tilework A critical focus of the renovation involved preserving as many original tiles as possible within the primary washing area. In collaboration with Tile Capsule from BOWCS Inc., the design team stabilized existing ceramic surfaces, maintaining tactile and visual links to the building's historical identity. ## Integration of Modern Wellness Programs To expand beyond traditional bathing, the architects integrated modern wellness features into the floor plan. The renovated facility introduces a dedicated sauna, a cold plunge pool, and an outdoor bathing zone, carefully weaving these new water programs into the structural shell of the former neighborhood bathhouse. ## Social Spaces and Hospitality Additions Beyond physical bathing zones, the project introduces dedicated indoor relaxation areas alongside a newly installed bar counter. These additions transform the utilitarian public bath into a multifunctional hospitality space, encouraging visitors to linger, unwind, and socialize after their wellness routines. ## Collaborative Design and Branding Execution The comprehensive transformation relied on specialized multidisciplinary collaborators. General contractor Kikuchi Soken executed the construction, while Yusuke Sakurai directed signage systems and Hiroaki Endo from NEWMAN Inc. developed the brand logo, establishing a cohesive visual identity across all touchpoints. ## Sustaining Communal Neighborhood Connections Historically, Japanese sento facilities served as essential neighborhood hubs for casual daily social interaction. Shizunoyu Fukushima aims to revitalize this communal role by offering an inviting setting that fosters informal encounters and intergenerational conversations within the surrounding Osaka district. ## A Blueprint for Heritage Evolution The project demonstrates how mid-century public infrastructure can be systematically repurposed without stripping away historic character. By balancing technical restoration with contemporary wellness programming, MABI ARCHITECTS provides a functional model for extending the lifecycle of specialized civic architecture. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.designboom.com/architecture/renewed-1983-bathhouse-japan-tilework-curved-interiors-mabi-architects-shizunoyu-fukushima/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._