Capella Kyoto hotel interiors inspired by machiya townhouses

The interiors of the Capella Kyoto hotel have been finalized by Brewin Design Office (BDO), situated on the site of a former primary school in Gion and designed by Kengo Kuma and Associates. The concept draws inspiration from traditional machiya townhouses, featuring a lengthy walkway adorned with shoji screens that leads into a lobby with wooden accents and a twisted sculpture reminiscent of shimenawa rope. A central courtyard showcases a pond, rocks, and trees. BDO incorporated local craftsmanship, such as hand-washed plaster walls and timber joinery. The hotel boasts three dining options: Sonoma, Yoi, and Lanterne. With 89 bedrooms offering views of either Kaburenjo Theatre or Kennin-ji temple, six suites are equipped with soaking tubs. Robert Cheng highlighted the blend of modern design with Kyoto's cultural heritage.