Tokyo-based Torafu Architects has recently completed the interior of the new FREITAG store in Osaka, Japan. The outfitter shop sells colorful messenger bags and accessories made out of recycled truck tarpaulins”, bicycle inner tubes, and used car seat belts.
For the street front-located store’s 25th anniversary, Torafu has been asked to design the interior maximizing the 65m2 space to store 1200 one-of-a-kind bags.
Based on “kiosk” style inspiration, which densely displays products in limited space, the design team has planned to locate u-shaped counter at the center of the store. This counter is composed of steel cabinet and cedar wood top recycled from thinned woods.
Above the counter, Torafu hangs a screen made of the same truck tarpaulins used for FREITAG’s bag. When the store opens, the screen is opened like kiosk’s awning. When the store is closed, the screen is closed showing printed FREITAG’s logo to the outside of the store.
On the left and right side of the walls, the design team has used full height for locating V30 which is FREITAG’s original shelf. On the rear wall of the store, perforated steel panels to enable the elevation for various visual displays.
For the ceiling, after cleaning the existing concrete surface, Torafu Architects hangs factory lighting. For the floor, the architects have just polished the existing concrete floor. This kind of treatment for the existing surface has been performed for the Ginza and Shibuya FREITAG’ stores. Torafu thinks it provides not only industrial atmosphere, but also the contrast with the new furniture.
all images © Daici Ano