Merci

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This building is built in a place surrounded by farmland, so the cafe was created to make the most of the surrounding environment. They had to think of an architecture that would allow people to enjoy nature. To that end, they created a distinctive triangular indoor balcony space above the entrance, as well as many open atriums to create a sense of openness. They also designed a cafe that can be enjoyed in the midst of nature, blurring the relationship between indoors and outdoors with large windows and a terrace that leads to the outside.

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Merci by YUMA SATO

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Shop by YUMA SATO

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YUMA SATO Merci

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YUMA SATO Shop

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Merci Shop Press Releases

Discover our press releases for Merci available in the following languages: English.

Unique Properties

This is a plant cafe where you can enjoy scenic rural views. It values nature and utilizes its facility surrounded by roads to create a space filled with natural light, making it a relaxing environment at any time of the day. The open atrium brings unity to the diverse spaces. Additionally, we focus on using more natural materials to create a sophisticated atmosphere.

Tags

cafe,regional circulation, nature,universality, coexistence

Production Technology

The building was constructed using wooden construction methods. Advanced structural calculations were employed, making extensive use of open ceilings. The finishing materials included flooring made from recycled products of coffee grounds solidified with cement, and the outer walls used natural materials, resulting in a sustainable building.

Project Duration

We will continue to expand, starting with Okayama City in 2024. We aim to open multiple stores in the future.

Operation Flow

This building is a cafe open to the local community, and a space that aims to promote local circulation. It aims to be an indigenous land that uses local ingredients. It also has an eye on inbound tourism, as a place where people can enjoy sightseeing at traditional Japanese facilities that are a tourist resource for the region.

Research

In this architecture, the most important thing is a space for creating a new and nostalgic future that blends in with the community. We aimed for a space that maximizes the goodness of the area while being able to design for the future.

Inspiration

The idea was to build a peaceful structure in the countryside that connects the two cities. Amidst the aging population and depopulation, it was crucial to support the local cycle and create a landscape loved by the community.

Image Credits

photo:Iku Asanuma

Project Overview

Merci Shop has been a Bronze winner in the Architecture, Building and Structure 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

YUMA SATO was recognized with the coveted Bronze A' Design Award in 2025, a testament to excellence of their work Merci Shop.

YUMA SATO Press Releases

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Merci Plant Cafe by Yuma Sato Wins Bronze at 2025 A' Design Award for Sustainable Community Architecture

Yuma Sato's "Merci" plant cafe, located in Okayama's countryside, has been awarded the Bronze A' Design Award 2025 for its innovative blend of natural materials, sustainable construction, and community-focused design, offering a tranquil space that connects cities and supports local revitalization.

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