New Omotesando Shop & Atelier – a flagship space for Ritzwell

On the occasion of Ritzwell’s 30th anniversary in 2022, the Japanese furniture designer and manufacturer celebrated the opening of a new flagship store in Tokyo’s fashion and design hub Aoyama, close to Tadao Ando’s Omotesando Hills and the Aoyama urban forest. Uniquely, it offers clients the chance to meet Ritzwell’s craftspeople and experience furniture being expertly crafted firsthand.

At the Atelier, visitors can watch live demonstrations by Ritzwell’s craftspeople, gaining a deeper insight into the refined processes behind each piece of furniture. For example, an upholstery demonstration for the generous, high-cushioned Beatrix High-Back Easy Chair reveals how the shell, fabric and leather are carefully combined by hand – resulting in a supremely comfortable and ergonomic seat. Wood-working techniques are demonstrated with the MO Bridge small desk made of walnut, oak and leather, which is smoothly crafted, yet also very functional for home working.

Through the welcoming setting of the Shop & Atelier, Ritzwell wanted to open up a dialogue with its customers. Humans are at the heart of every product – from the hands that create each piece and imbue it with a soulful quality, to how the furniture ‘inhabits’ space like another member of the family, and the feeling of comfort experienced by the user.

Photos © Yuki Yamaguchi

© Architonic