SR Ice Cream Miyakojima: A Sweet Architectural Delight by Kii
Kii, a renowned architecture studio, has recently unveiled its latest work, SR Ice Cream Miyakojima, an inviting ice cream shop located on the picturesque Miyakojima Island in Japan’s Okinawa prefecture. This ocean-side haven is not just about ice cream; it’s a beautifully curated experience that resonates with the island’s unique environment and cultural heritage.
A Design Inspired by Nature
Nestled in a subtropical oceanic climate, the interior of SR Ice Cream Miyakojima draws heavily from its surroundings. The architects deliberately selected locally sourced materials to ensure durability against the region’s weather conditions. This attention to material selection was crucial in creating a welcoming environment for locals, newcomers, and tourists alike.
Satoshi Arai, one of Kii’s co-founders, articulated the intent behind the space stating, “Our goal was to create a welcoming atmosphere where people from diverse backgrounds can come together over ice cream or coffee.”
The Centerpiece: Limestone Counter
At the heart of the café is a large, rounded counter crafted from Ryukyu limestone, which is local to the area. The counter features a lime plaster tabletop, encouraging social interaction with a layout designed for standing and sitting. This limestone counter isn’t just functional; it embodies the artistry of Okinawa’s plaster specialists, who have worked meticulously to layer the limestone clay.
Kei Nakatomi, another co-founder, explained, “The process yields a unique texture through the application of rounded lumps of limestone clay.” This craft not only ensures strength but also adds an artistic flair to the daily operations of the shop.
Curved Ceilings and Playful Design Elements
A distinctive pale pink curved ceiling captures attention as soon as visitors enter SR Ice Cream Miyakojima. Its color was thoughtfully chosen to harmonize with the natural light shifts throughout the day. Arai mentioned the lengthy experimentation process to find the perfect pink, ensuring it resonated with the café’s ambiance around the clock.
Furthermore, Kii included a whimsical arched door in the counter, allowing for practical maintenance access while enhancing the café’s playful aesthetic.
Perforated Concrete Tiles: A Regional Trademark
Miyakojima has a history of dealing with typhoons, which influenced Kii’s choice of a perforated concrete brick that allows for strategic ventilation. These custom tiles, sourced from Tajimi, seamlessly integrate into the café’s design while paying homage to local architecture.
The studio aimed to blend modernity with tradition, and these tiles serve as a nod to the resilience of local structures against the elemental forces that characterize the region’s climate.
Artisanal Touches: Stools and Cushions
Visitors to SR Ice Cream will find uniquely designed glazed ceramic stools that evoke the visual of melting ice cream—a delightful touch that complements the shop’s focus. These stools, created by the NOTA shop in Shigaraki, were selected for their ease of maintenance and non-directional design, allowing them to fit under low tables comfortably.
Additionally, cushions woven from Cogon grass, a native plant of the island, serve both functionality and aesthetic appeal, helping to create a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
Community-Centric Design
Emphasizing community engagement, Kii envisioned SR Ice Cream as a space where visitors linger and socialize. Nakatomi observed the organic interactions occurring within the café, reflecting the community-centric design philosophy. This vibrant setting not only serves delicious treats but also fosters a sense of belonging among its diverse clientele.
With a blend of local materials, playful designs, and a deep respect for its surroundings, SR Ice Cream Miyakojima stands as a testament to Kii’s innovative approach, crafting a human-centric space that goes beyond mere architecture. Each visit becomes an immersive experience, highlighting the beauty and warmth of Miyakojima Island through the lens of thoughtful design.
The SR Ice Cream shop thus emerges not just as a place for indulgence but as a crucial meeting point for culture, craftsmanship, and community vitality in a stunning natural setting.