Machiyas and Kominkas: resilient icons hidden within the Japanese landscape.
These are not just old houses; they are cultural assets—the crystallization of master craftsmanship, premium timber, and centuries of ancestral wisdom living in harmony with nature.
GENSO is a professional collective led by architect Yoshiji Takehara.
From the strategic sourcing of rare Machiyas to the meticulous renovation of every material,
our team guides you through the entire journey as one.
“GEN” (玄)
The wisdom of the true master.
It embodies the refined expertise and profound knowledge of a seasoned professional.
“SO” (素)
The raw vitality of the material.
It represents the innate life force and honest beauty found within nature itself.
Machiyas and Kominkas: resilient icons hidden within the Japanese landscape.
These are not just old houses; they are cultural assets—the crystallization of master craftsmanship, premium timber, and centuries of ancestral wisdom living in harmony with nature.
GENSO is a professional collective led by architect Yoshiji Takehara.
From the strategic sourcing of rare Machiyas to the meticulous renovation of every material,
our team guides you through the entire journey as one.
“GEN” (玄)
The wisdom of the true master.
It embodies the refined expertise and profound knowledge of a seasoned professional.
“SO” (素)
The raw vitality of the material.
It represents the innate life force and honest beauty found within nature itself.
「A sanctuary of your own in Kyoto.」
Serenity, warmth, and quiet shadows.
Let us create your place of restoration—together.
A sanctuary of your own in Kyoto.
Serenity, warmth, and quiet shadows.
Let us create your place of restoration—together.
Scenario
Step away from the city’s bustle and settle into a masterpiece of Nordic design.
t is a sanctuary of “Yohaku”—the beauty of empty space
—where you can untangle your thoughts and reconnect with your inner self.
In the heart of Kyoto’s vibrant energy, discover your own private world of calm.
Scenario
Step away from the city’s bustle and settle into a masterpiece of Nordic design.
It is a sanctuary of “Yohaku”—the beauty of empty space—where you can untangle your thoughts and reconnect with your inner self.
In the heart of Kyoto’s vibrant energy, discover your own private world of calm.
The Masters
Our craftsmanship begins with a deep dialogue with the materials.
The architectural vision of Yoshiji Takehara crafts the interplay of light and shadow,
while master artisans read the spirit of the wood to build a legacy that endures for centuries.
By applying professional mastery to the purity of nature,
we define a new way of connecting heritage to the future.
The Masters
Our craftsmanship begins with a deep dialogue with the materials.
The architectural vision of Yoshiji Takehara crafts the interplay of light and shadow,
while master artisans read the spirit of the wood to build a legacy that endures for centuries.
By applying professional mastery to the purity of nature, we define a new way of connecting heritage to the future.
設計
Design
Yoshiji Takehara
(Architect)
Inherit, Add, and Connect.
“Old architecture is filled with wisdom that accepts the accumulation of time, human activity, and the changing seasons. It has been constantly updated through addition and subtraction.
Newness is added to the old; age dwells in the new. In this relationship, architecture continues to mark time.”
1948 Born in Tokushima Prefecture.
1971 Joined Osamu Ishii / Biken Architectural Design Office after studying at the Togashi Laboratory, Osaka City University.
1978 Established MOO ARCHITECT WORKSHOP.
2000–2013 Professor, Graduate School of Human Life Science, Osaka City University.
2015–2019 Professor, Department of Architecture, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Setsunan University.
Present Visiting Professor, Department of Architecture, Faculty of Environmental and Urban Engineering, Kansai University.
MOO ARCHITECT WORKSHOP
“All things begin in Mu (Nothingness) and return to Yu (Existence).”
The architectural studio of Yoshiji Takehara. Rooted in residential design, the firm pursues the creation of spaces where people live with true vitality.
施工
Construction
Taniguchi Komuten Co., Ltd.
(Master Carpenters & Specialists in Timber Homes)
Crafting the Future
Japanese Master Carpentry
Our craft demands time, patience, and unwavering care.
Yet, we believe our work finds its true meaning in creating architecture that endures for the future.
Based in Ryuo, Shiga, Taniguchi Koumuten is a specialist in wooden architecture and a collective of master carpenters. We possess the rare skill to assess the strength of reclaimed timber, hand-carve it, and reassemble it with precision.
From structural reinforcement and insulation to traditional clay plastering and the restoration of antique fittings, our craftsmen’s hands and eyes oversee every detail of the renovation process.
インテリア
Interior
Bridging Heritage with Daily Life.
Ancient memories meet Nordic grace.
A serene landscape for the modern soul.
Nordic design—its serenity, organic curves, and rich textures—resonates deeply with the stillness of Japanese architecture.
At +ROGOBA, we do more than just “place” furniture. We read the atmosphere of the architecture to coordinate a seamless sensory connection.
設計
Design
Yoshiji Takehara
(Architect)
Inherit, Add, and Connect.
“Old architecture is filled with wisdom that accepts the accumulation of time, human activity, and the changing seasons. It has been constantly updated through addition and subtraction.
Newness is added to the old; age dwells in the new. In this relationship, architecture continues to mark time.”
1948 Born in Tokushima Prefecture.
1971 Joined Osamu Ishii / Biken Architectural Design Office after studying at the Togashi Laboratory, Osaka City University.
1978 Established MOO ARCHITECT WORKSHOP.
2000–2013 Professor, Graduate School of Human Life Science, Osaka City University.
2015–2019 Professor, Department of Architecture, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Setsunan University.
Present Visiting Professor, Department of Architecture, Faculty of Environmental and Urban Engineering, Kansai University.
“All things begin in Mu (Nothingness) and return to Yu (Existence).”
The architectural studio of Yoshiji Takehara. Rooted in residential design, the firm pursues the creation of spaces where people live with true vitality.
施工
Construction
Crafting the Future
Japanese Master Carpentry
Our craft demands time, patience, and unwavering care.
Yet, we believe our work finds its true meaning in creating architecture that endures for the future.
Based in Ryuo, Shiga, Taniguchi Koumuten is a specialist in wooden architecture and a collective of master carpenters. We possess the rare skill to assess the strength of reclaimed timber, hand-carve it, and reassemble it with precision.
From structural reinforcement and insulation to traditional clay plastering and the restoration of antique fittings, our craftsmen’s hands and eyes oversee every detail of the renovation process.
インテリア
Interior
Bridging Heritage with Daily Life.
Nordic design—its serenity, organic curves, and rich textures—resonates deeply with the stillness of Japanese architecture.
Nordic design—its serenity, organic curves, and rich textures—resonates deeply with the stillness of Japanese architecture.
At +ROGOBA, we do more than just “place” furniture. We read the atmosphere of the architecture to coordinate a seamless sensory connection.
Collection
Vision by Yoshiji Takehara.
Crafted by Master Hands.
Three signature retreats,
dedicated to the luxury of silence.
Collection
Vision by Yoshiji Takehara.
Crafted by Master Hands.
Three signature retreats,
dedicated to the luxury of silence.
GENSO-玄素- Showroom / Otsu Hyakucho Studio
Otsu Hyakucho Studio
A 100-year-old Machiya, reborn as our showroom.
Experience a one-of-a-kind atmosphere where master craftsmanship meets the grace of Nordic design—a space where tradition and elegance breathe as one.
HOTEL KOO / OTSU HYAKUCHO
A new way to travel: “Living in the Town.” Hotel Koo is a decentralized hotel that reimagines the entire neighborhood as a single, unified inn.
By reviving vacant Machiyas, we transform the town itself into a stage for your journey. This challenge began with Hirokazu Taniguchi’s deep conviction: “To preserve a Machiya is to keep a culture alive.”
Together with architect Yoshiji Takehara, we have meticulously restored these homes, harmonizing them with serene Nordic furniture to create a sanctuary for the soul. Here, guests don’t just stay—they form a deep, meaningful connection with the town.
SANKOAN / Chashitsu (Japanese Tea Ceremony Room)
The Architecture of Five Senses:
Light, shadow, the sound of water, and the scent of wood.
Experience a moment of profound serenity in our restored Chashitsu.
GENSO-玄素- Showroom / Otsu Hyakucho Studio
Otsu Hyakucho Studio
A 100-year-old Machiya, reborn as our showroom.
Experience a one-of-a-kind atmosphere where master craftsmanship meets the grace of Nordic design—a space where tradition and elegance breathe as one.
HOTEL KOO / OTSU HYAKUCHO
A new way to travel: “Living in the Town.” Hotel Koo is a decentralized hotel that reimagines the entire neighborhood as a single, unified inn.
By reviving vacant Machiyas, we transform the town itself into a stage for your journey. This challenge began with Hirokazu Taniguchi’s deep conviction: “To preserve a Machiya is to keep a culture alive.”
Together with architect Yoshiji Takehara, we have meticulously restored these homes, harmonizing them with serene Nordic furniture to create a sanctuary for the soul. Here, guests don’t just stay—they form a deep, meaningful connection with the town.
SANKOAN / Chashitsu (Japanese Tea Ceremony Room)
The Architecture of Five Senses:
Light, shadow, the sound of water, and the scent of wood.
Experience a moment of profound serenity in our restored Chashitsu.
Process
A Seamless Journey to Your Ultimate Residence
From property sourcing to lifetime maintenance,
we handle every detail so you don’t have to.
Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a master-led, all-inclusive partnership.
Process
A Seamless Journey to Your Ultimate Residence
From property sourcing to lifetime maintenance, we handle every detail so you don’t have to. Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a master-led, all-inclusive partnership.
Contact
Experience the world of GENSO for yourself.
From showroom tours and hotel stays to villa consultations,
we offer a range of experiences tailored to you.
Online consultations are also available for our guests living overseas.
Please feel free to reach out to us from anywhere in the world.
Contact
Experience the world of GENSO for yourself.
From showroom tours and hotel stays to villa consultations, we offer a range of experiences tailored to you.
Online consultations are also available for our guests living overseas. Please feel free to reach out to us from anywhere in the world.
Please feel free to contact us with any questions or to book a showroom visit.
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