Asanuma Corporation's Unique Earth-Based Design Wins Prestigious Award
Asanuma Corporation, headquartered in Naniwa-ku, Osaka, announced that their innovative building technique, the "Rittai Kizuri Tsuchikabe" or the three-dimensional earth cladding wall, has been integrated into the interior design of the "Imomatsu Toyosu Senkakubankai" restaurant. This remarkable restaurant has recently received the prestigious 2025 Good Design Award, hosted by the Japan Design Promotion Association. Asanuma Corporation also managed the construction of this award-winning facility.
What is the 'Rittai Kizuri Tsuchikabe'?
With a strong belief that sustainable construction practices are essential for the future of the industry, Asanuma Corporation focuses on developing Circular Materials and Technologies. The Rittai Kizuri Tsuchikabe, which has obtained patent protection, exemplifies this commitment. It debuted as a flagship model of sustainable building when the Asanuma Nagoya branch was renovated in 2021. This unique technique caught the attention of Tsuyoshi Kinoshita from Nippon Design, who proposed the idea to incorporate the 'soil from the field' into a restaurant focusing on fresh produce. This inspired Asanuma Corporation to develop a wall comprised of layered earth and wood, utilizing natural materials such as construction waste, straw, and wood shavings.
Inspired by the ancient practice of adobe brick construction seen globally, this innovative wall creates a lightweight structure capable of self-stability while allowing for rapid installation. By exclusively using natural materials, it excels in environmental performance, including low carbon emissions during construction, carbon storage capabilities, resource recycling through the separation of soil and wood, and excellent moisture absorption properties that improve indoor air quality. This revolutionary technique has been registered under patent number 2025-524801.
Insights on the 'Imomatsu Toyosu Senkakubankai'
The Imomatsu restaurant, part of the Toyosu wholesale market, diversifies into food and retail to explore new business opportunities. Designed by Kinoshita, the restaurant embraces traditional Japanese building materials, specifically soil, to enhance the dining experience. The space reflects local food culture through its presentation of soil and fresh seasonal vegetables, fostering a connection with the community's agricultural heritage.
Overview of the Imomatsu Toyosu Senkakubankai
- - Store Name: Imomatsu Senkakubankai
- - Location: 6-5-1 Toyosu, Koto City, Tokyo
- - Owner: Imomatsu Co., Ltd.
- - Designer: Tsuyoshi Kinoshita (Nippon Design)
- - Construction: Asanuma Corporation
- - Construction Partner: KS AG, Inc.
The Good Design Award jury praised the restaurant's unique approach, noting that using 'field soil' for the walls creates a lasting impression on consumers. The earthy scent within the space defines its character, with the soil not just as a mere element but as an integral part of its identity, contributing to both aesthetics and functionality. While the durability of such a material may pose challenges, it emphasizes the importance of maintenance, reflecting the freshness that Imomatsu strives to deliver through its offerings of seasonal produce. This considerate approach is expected to resonate deeply with customers, communicating essential values in a gentle yet impactful manner.
Upcoming Exhibition
The 2025 Good Design Award exhibition will showcase the winning designs, including the remarkable work of Asanuma Corporation.
- - Exhibition Dates: November 1st to November 5th, 2025
- - Location: Tokyo Midtown, Minato City, Tokyo
- - Entry Fee: Free, no reservation necessary (Entry restrictions may apply based on crowd levels)
- - Official URL: Good Design Award Exhibition 2025
More About the Good Design Award
Established in 1957, the Good Design Award aims to enhance our lives and society through design. It recognizes various fields, including products, architecture, software, systems, and services, by evaluating the quality and effectiveness of design in fulfilling human ideals and purposes. Asanuma Corporation epitomizes the spirit of the award with their unwavering commitment to quality and sustainability in construction.
Asanuma Corporation Overview
Founded over 130 years ago, Asanuma Corporation continues to focus on sincere craftsmanship with the slogan, "We have a proud history and a future we want to create."
- - Company Name: Asanuma Corporation
- - Headquarters: 1-2-3 Minatomachi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka
- - Established: 1892
- - Incorporated: 1937
- - CEO: Makoto Asanuma
- - Website: Asanuma Corporation