A remarkable architectural transformation has taken place in the small fishing village of Akune City, southern Japan, where atelier SALAD has renovated a 90-year-old traditional wooden house for a Michelin-starred chef. The project, completed in 2025, represents a thoughtful blend of historical preservation and contemporary design philosophy that celebrates local materials and cultural traditions.
The 88-square-meter residence, known as the House of Local Spirits, was designed by lead architects Kohei Tokunaga and Hiroko Kakoi of atelier SALAD. The project was deeply inspired by the chef's unique worldview, which places significant value on local materials and traditional practices. This philosophical approach guided the architects' vision to express a similar sense of regional identity and cultural continuity through their architectural intervention.
The renovation project required careful consideration of the building's historic significance while accommodating the needs of its distinguished occupant. The architects sought to maintain the authentic character of the traditional wooden structure while introducing modern elements that would support the chef's culinary pursuits and lifestyle. The design process involved extensive collaboration with various specialists, including Filaments for engineering, consulting, and lighting design, as well as Weru Landscape for the landscape architecture components.
Photographer Kenta Hasegawa captured the completed transformation, documenting how the architects successfully preserved the building's traditional wooden framework while integrating contemporary design elements. The project demonstrates how historic architecture can be respectfully adapted for modern use without compromising its cultural integrity or aesthetic value.
The House of Local Spirits stands as a testament to the possibility of harmonious coexistence between historical preservation and contemporary living. By honoring both the chef's commitment to local traditions and the building's architectural heritage, atelier SALAD has created a space that embodies the concept of 'local spirits' – a connection to place, tradition, and community that transcends mere physical renovation to become a celebration of cultural continuity in modern Japan.
