Chuji

Retail for design Chill-out inc.

Although this store is located in the international city of Tokyo, it was planned in a quiet location a little ways back. There are many flashy stores with a Chinese atmosphere in the surrounding area, but this store has a modern Japanese atmosphere Zen. By using materials that are readily available, costs were kept down, while the cutting method and details were ingeniously designed to make it original and special. Also, with sustainability in mind, used tea leaves were dried and mixed into the plastering material for reuse. It is an expression that is rich in both appearance and aroma.

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Chuji by Atsushi Murakami

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Retail by Atsushi Murakami

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Atsushi Murakami Chuji

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Atsushi Murakami Retail

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design Chill out inc Brand Logo

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Unique Properties

Cost control is important, especially when designing a small-scale store. By using readily available materials rather than special materials, we were able to keep costs down, while also creating an original and special space by devising cutting methods and details. In addition, used tea leaves were dried, crushed, and mixed into the plastering materials. Even after being mixed in, the fragrance and slight color were extracted, and the texture was also evident, resulting in a unique finish.

Tags

chinese, tea, sweets, teahouse, factory

Production Technology

Another existing store discards about 600 kg of used tea leaves per year.It cannot be served to customers again, but it still has enough aroma and consciousness left in it.Of course, we will not be able to reuse or upcycle all of these materials in this project.Not only will this project appeal to the senses of touch and smell, but it will also raise awareness of sustainability at the same time.

Design Challenge

There are no straight sections in the seating area of ​​this store.It is difficult to arrange tables efficiently.So we arranged a large table that follows the curve. However, a large table is inevitably heavy.To make it look lighter, we gave it a single leg and hung the end from the ceiling. This created a mysterious space where something heavy appears to be floating in the air.

Project Duration

The project started in April 2023 and finished in Aril 2024 in Tokyo

Operation Flow

Customers can choose and purchase products from the display cases and shelves, and those who make a reservation can enjoy a course set that includes carefully selected Chinese tea and sweets.

Inspiration

The store is located in the multinational city of Tokyo. Although there are many fancy Chinese restaurants in the neighborhood, we have created a gentle space that appeals to the senses of sight, touch, and smell, aiming for a modern Tokyo-style Chinese store.

Image Credits

Image #1-5: Photographer ©Nacása & Partners Inc.

Project Overview

Chuji Retail has been a Bronze winner in the Interior Space and Exhibition Design award category in the year 2024 organized by the prestigious A' Design Award & Competition. The Bronze A' Design Award is given to outstanding designs that showcase a high degree of creativity and practicality. It recognizes the dedication and skill of designers who produce work that stands out for its thoughtful development and innovative use of materials and technology. These designs are acknowledged for their professional execution and potential to influence industry standards positively. Winning this award highlights the designer's ability to blend form and function effectively, offering solutions that enhance people's lives and wellbeing.

Bronze Recognition

Atsushi Murakami was recognized with the coveted Bronze A' Design Award in 2025, a testament to excellence of their work Chuji Retail.

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