Tsuyama Hotel I & II Renovation by NAAD and studio tata
Historic Japanese machiya townhouses transformed into boutique hospitality spaces in Tsuyama.
1Historic District Transformation
The Tsuyama Hotel I and II project involves the renovation of two traditional machiya townhouses located in the Joto district of Tsuyama, Japan. This area is historically significant for its preserved townscape along the former Izumo Kaido road. Architects Yoichiro Hayashi and Taichi Hirata led the conversion of these wooden structures.
2Dual Hotel Concept
The development is split into two distinct buildings, each serving a unique function within the hospitality sector. Hotel I features a lobby and a gallery space, while Hotel II incorporates a cafe. Both buildings provide two guest rooms on their upper floors, maximizing the utility of the 318 square meter total area.
3Architectural Design Approach
The design team, including Momoka Yamabe, focused on refurbishing the existing wooden structures to meet modern hotel standards while respecting the local architectural heritage. By utilizing wood and glass as primary materials, the architects balanced traditional aesthetics with contemporary interior design requirements, ensuring the buildings remain functional for modern travelers visiting Okayama.
4Project Specifications
The renovation project covers a total area of 318 square meters and reached completion in 2026. The project was documented through photography by Yosuke Ohtake, highlighting the integration of new interior elements within the historic shell. The design emphasizes the preservation of the original wooden framework throughout the entire building process.
5Context of Machiya Architecture
Machiya are traditional wooden townhouses that historically served as both residences and commercial spaces for merchants and artisans. By repurposing these structures into boutique hotels, the project prevents the decay of historic urban fabric. This adaptive reuse strategy is a common approach in Japan to revitalize aging districts without losing character.
6Impact on Local Tourism
The introduction of these boutique hotels in the Joto district aims to attract visitors interested in cultural heritage and historic townscapes. By providing accommodation directly within a preserved district, the project encourages longer stays. This supports the local economy by integrating tourism infrastructure into the existing community layout of Tsuyama city.
7Material and Aesthetic Choices
The architects utilized a material palette of wood and glass to bridge the gap between the historic exterior and the modern interior needs. The transparency of glass allows for natural light to penetrate the deep floor plans typical of machiya, while the wood maintains the structural integrity and warmth of the original design.
8Future of Urban Heritage
This renovation serves as a model for how small-scale hospitality projects can contribute to urban conservation. By focusing on two specific buildings, NAAD and studio tata demonstrate that large-scale demolition is not necessary for modernization. Future developments in Tsuyama may follow this path to maintain the integrity of the Izumo Kaido.
Original article: ArchDaily Global — Tsuyama Hotel I & II Renovation by NAAD and studio tata