#Japan #Ibaraki #Oarai #Nami and Tsuki #Motoya United

A New Living Space: 'Nami and Tsuki'

Motoya United Co., Ltd. has recently announced that their retreat house, 'Community-Connected Retreat House Nami and Tsuki', located in Oarai Town, Ibaraki Prefecture, has been honored with the Renovation Award and the Excellence Award in the General Category at the 51st Tokyo Architecture Awards. This prestigious accolade highlights the increasing importance of architectural integration with community and innovative design.

Established by the Tokyo Association of Architectural Firms, the Tokyo Architecture Awards aim to acknowledge outstanding architectural achievements that contribute positively to urban construction and the enhancement of life and culture within local environments. Since its inception in 1974, numerous distinguished architectural works have been recognized. This year, 'Nami and Tsuki' stands out, not only for its aesthetic value but also for its engagement with the local community and attention to intricate design details.

The retreat house is situated in a former sake brewery, which has been completely renovated into a two-story wooden building that houses a restaurant and accommodation facilities. The first floor features the dining establishment 'CAFE & CHINESE KURAGE', serving creative Chinese cuisine using locally-sourced ingredients from Ibaraki Prefecture. Meanwhile, the second floor is a private accommodation space, available for a single group each day. Guests can enjoy the relaxing ambience unique to Oarai, enriched by traditional Japanese interior design and existing features that foster a comfortable stay.

Additionally, the facility includes a sauna tent and an event space, making it a multi-purpose venue that respects the historical significance of the building while promoting various contemporary ways of enjoying life. The innovative use of architecture, specifically the application of a technique known as 'moranai-sabi' on the exterior, adds a layer of rustic charm which integrates seamlessly with the surrounding environment. This not only pays homage to local aesthetic values but also effectively addresses numerous community challenges, transforming the building into a landmark of comfort and community connection.

With its strategic focus on enhancing the local cultural landscape, 'Nami and Tsuki' aims to foster interactions among visitors while providing an inviting space to share memorable experiences. This newly minted venue is set to become a focal point of the Oarai region for both tourists and locals alike, combining modern functionality with rich heritage.

About the Architects and Builders

The architectural design for 'Nami and Tsuki' was meticulously crafted by G ARCHITECTS STUDIO, led by Ryohei Tanaka, with construction managed by ZOSUN under the supervision of Hideki Abeda. Their joint effort has yielded a structure that bridges the gap between past and present.

Location Details

Situated in Oarai Town, this retreat house can be easily accessed by taxi in about five minutes or a ten-minute walk from Oarai Station on the Oarai Kashima Line. For reservations, please visit: https://nami-tsuki.com/.

About Motoya United Co., Ltd.

Originating in Kurashiki City, Okayama, Motoya United has expanded its reach with various businesses encompassing education, drones, mobility, property, food and culture, creation, investment, global business management, and more across Tokyo, Osaka, Gifu, Ibaraki, Tochigi, and Southeast Asia.
Founded in 1947, the company continues to innovate under the leadership of President Shintaro Ono.

For media inquiries, please contact Motoya United Tokyo Office:

• - Keita Matsumoto
• - TEL: 03-6278-8663
• - MAIL: k-matsumoto@motoya-united.co.jp