In Kyoto’s historic center, a striking juxtaposition of past and future has emerged with the unveiling of A-POC ABLE ISSEY MIYAKE by Tokujin Yoshioka.
Set within a traditional machiya-style townhouse, this retail space deftly bridges the gap between ancient Japanese architecture and cutting-edge design. The exterior retains the understated elegance of the ancient capital’s wooden homes, while the interior serves as an homage to innovation, much like Issey Miyake’s pioneering approach to fashion. Yoshioka’s design centers on the idea of fusion—between history and the future, technology and handcraft, structure and fluidity.
At the heart of the space are the fixtures, meticulously crafted from integrally molded recycled aluminum. This material choice mirrors the A-POC philosophy of creating clothing through seamless manufacturing, weaving technological advances into the very fabric of the design. These lightweight, metallic forms are a direct response to the brand’s focus on next-generation clothing, offering a counterpoint to the surrounding dark timber beams. The space feels almost ethereal, with its clean lines and reflective surfaces amplifying a sense of lightness, creating a gallery-like atmosphere where each garment is framed as a work of art.
Ultimately, Tokujin Yoshioka’s concept honors the ongoing dialogue between tradition and innovation, which has long defined Issey Miyake’s ethos. By housing this bold, forward-thinking brand in a building that breathes history, Yoshioka challenges the boundaries of interior architecture, making A-POC ABLE not just a store but a contemplation of time, space, and craft.
