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~ Indulge in the World of Baccarat ~ A Luxurious Space Where You Can Experience the Essence of the Brand: “B bar Marunouchi” Relocates and Reopens

GARDE was responsible for the interior design, master planning, and execution of the newly reopened B bar Marunouchi, which opened in mid-May 2025.

Design Concept: “Indulge in the World of Baccarat”

At B bar Marunouchi, guests are invited to savor curated menus made with premium ingredients, all served in exquisite Baccarat glassware. In keeping with the exceptional service offered, the space has been meticulously designed to evoke the timeless elegance and luxurious ambiance that defines Baccarat.
Building on the original concept established in 2003, the project preserves the essence of the original B bar while breathing new life into the space—aiming for a seamless fusion of tradition and innovation. Throughout the design process, GARDE worked closely with Baccarat to reflect their input and vision.
Below, we highlight three key elements that capture the spirit of this collaboration.

Point 1: Passion Infused Through Iconic “Red” Accents

In a space where lighting is purposefully dimmed to foster intimacy, Baccarat’s signature red acts as a striking accent, lending both passion and refinement throughout the interior. A single red glass embedded within the “Baccarat Wall,” along with red-upholstered sofas, imbues the dark-toned space with dramatic flair and emotional depth.

The design is further enriched by traditional Japanese craftsmanship, including an Iwayado tansu—a stately chest from Iwate Prefecture—and a bar counter crafted from solid wood, preserved from the previous location. These elements introduce a natural warmth that softens the otherwise sleek, contemporary environment.

Point 2: A Showcase of Design Aesthetics

At B bar Marunouchi, Baccarat’s timeless design language is celebrated through visual storytelling. The bar prominently features the iconic “Tsarine” candelabra and a curated selection of crystal glassware as decorative focal points.

Two Baccarat chandeliers are positioned to be visible from multiple angles, enhanced by magic mirrors that subtly distort and redirect reflections—offering dramatically different perspectives depending on one’s location inside or outside the bar. From the very first step inside, guests are enveloped in a visually captivating environment that reflects Baccarat’s uncompromising design ethos.

Point 3: Embedded Heritage and Cultural Narratives

The space weaves history into its aesthetic DNA. Signature details such as the Baccarat logo and metal B bar signage—modest yet deliberate—provide a sense of continuity and comfort for returning guests while evoking prestige and authenticity for newcomers.

In the hallway to the restrooms, framed photographs showcase the Baccarat village manufactory in France, capturing artisans and moments from the production process. These quiet vignettes turn even transitional spaces into reflections of Baccarat’s deep-rooted heritage and dedication to craftsmanship.

A Space Designed for Flexibility and Function

Beyond its visual appeal, B bar Marunouchi is built for versatility. A stately bar counter anchors the main space, while three private rooms offer options for guests arriving solo or in groups.

In the most secluded of these rooms, a floating wall lamp set against a curtained backdrop adds a surreal, almost dreamlike quality—heightening the room’s immersive character and creating a perfect setting for private indulgence.

Designer’s Message

This project was guided by the concept of “Indulging in the World of Baccarat.” Through ongoing dialogue with the Baccarat team, we captured their vision with care, embedding every request into a design that achieves a harmonious balance of legacy and innovation.

Every detail in this space tells a story. We invite guests to savor their drinks—each served in one of over 200 types of Baccarat glasses—while discovering the layered narratives that make this bar truly exceptional.

Whether it’s your first visit or a return to a familiar name, the new B bar Marunouchi promises an experience unlike any other, one that transcends the ordinary and welcomes you into Baccarat’s world of timeless elegance.

Lead Designer

Manato Kiriya
Designer, Brand Design Department, Brand Business Division
After completing his graduate studies, Manato Kiriya began his career at a domestic architectural firm, working on a variety of restaurant and office design projects both in Japan and abroad. Since joining GARDE, he has played an active role as a local architect and designer, primarily handling projects for international luxury brands within the Brand Business Division.

Store Information

Name: B bar Marunouchi
Address: B1F, Shin-Tokyo Building, 3-3-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0005
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday: 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Closed on Sundays and national holidays
For more details, please visit the official website:
https://stores.baccarat.com/jp/b-bar-marunouchi

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GARDE For「Anaplan Japan」 Creating an urban oasis within the office space

Project

Anaplan, Inc., the leading scenario planning and analysis platform, offers innovative solutions for optimizing decision-making in today’s complex business environment.

GARDE was honored to be entrusted with the design of the Tokyo office for its Japanese subsidiary, Anaplan Japan K.K., handling architectural design (from concept to schematic and design development), MEP design (conceptual and schematic stages), project management, and construction supervision.

Design Concept: Urban Oasis

Tokyo is a rare metropolis where nature and city life coexist in harmony. A prime example of this balance is seen around the Imperial Palace, where vast green spaces like the Outer Gardens and Kitanomaru Park serve as tranquil urban oases.

Inspired by this unique dynamic, the office design applies principles of biophilic design to translate the restorative and invigorating essence of these natural environments into the workspace—creating an “urban oasis” within the heart of the city.

Biophilic design, which integrates natural elements into architecture and interiors, has been gaining attention for its potential to reduce stress, promote relaxation, and enhance focus and productivity.

By weaving natural elements throughout the office, we aimed to elevate the well-being and performance of those who work there.

A Workplace Designed with Meticulous Attention to Detail

Anaplan’s Customer Experience Center warmly welcomes visitors with an inviting atmosphere, complemented by a spacious layout that includes a pantry and sweeping views toward Tokyo Station.
The office is also equipped with versatile collaboration spaces that accommodate a wide range of work styles. Seamlessly integrated AV systems further enhance the functionality of the space, resulting in a workplace that is both comfortable and highly productive.

Soft-toned materials, woodgrain finishes, and a calming, muted color palette ensure a timeless design that remains appealing over the long term.
Abundant greenery has been incorporated throughout the space, creating an environment that supports both human well-being and thoughtful design.

To offer a more immersive experience of the office design, Anaplan Japan has kindly collaborated with us to provide a Matterport virtual tour.
This high-precision digital walkthrough was created using a specialized 3D scanning camera capable of capturing the space in 360 degrees.

Explore the 3D Virtual Space
Password: AnaplanJPN@01

Designer’s Message

For this project, we at GARDE prioritized close and thoughtful communication with both the client and the building owner, while also collaborating closely with vendors and contractors. Our goal was to create a space where all stakeholders could feel genuinely satisfied with the outcome.

Looking ahead, we remain committed to designing workplaces that go beyond aesthetic appeal—spaces that embody functionality, comfort, and sustainability, delivering true long-term value.

Lead Designer

Francesco Ristori
Architect / Designer
Office Design Division, Global Design Department, GARDE
Francesco studied architecture at the University of Florence. After graduation, he was involved in residential and retail design as well as the restoration of historic buildings in Italy. Since relocating to Japan in 2014, he has contributed to a broad range of projects across Japan and Asia, including Japan IBM Innovation Studio, HOTEL ARU KYOTO, and Kosugi 3rd Avenue in Musashi-Kosugi, spanning the office, hospitality, residential, and commercial sectors.

Project Overview

Scope of Work:

Architectural Design (Concept Design, Schematic Design, and Design Development)
MEP Design (Concept and Schematic)
Project Management
Construction Supervision

Project Name:
Anaplan Japan K.K. (Office Design)

Floor Area:
700㎡

About Anaplan

Anaplan is the only scenario planning and analysis platform designed to optimize decision-making in today’s complex business environment so that enterprises can outpace their competition and the market. By building connections and collaboration across organizational silos, our platform intelligently surfaces key insights — so businesses can make the right decisions, right now.
More than 2,500 of the world’s best brands continually optimize their decision-making by planning with Anaplan.
To learn more, visit https://www.anaplan.com/jp/

Art Project Hosted by GARDE: Solo Exhibition by Takeshi Sumi – “concorde”

Event

This time, we are pleased to present “concorde”, a new solo exhibition by artist Takeshi Sumi, who explores harmony through interventions in photography. The exhibition will be held from May 30 to July 1, 2025.

The title “concorde” comes from the French word for “harmony.” For Sumi, the starting point of creation lies in overcoming the distances and divisions between people to discover harmony. This exhibition showcases a series of works centered on photography, incorporating a range of techniques such as embroidery, slits, and light.

Through delicate manual interventions, Sumi reconstructs the relationship between the subject in the photograph and the photographer themselves. Photography as a medium often creates an inherently asymmetrical relationship between the one who takes and the one who is taken.

In order to bridge that divide, Sumi employs analog techniques such as embroidering onto photographs, piercing them to let light through, and adding slits, creating a tangible connection between himself and the subject.

These expressions are also an attempt to give form to what is “invisible yet felt”, the subtle shifts in perception that arise from encounters with his subjects. Often described as an “aura,” this quality reflects Sumi’s intent to allow both the conscious and unconscious to coexist within his work.

This exhibition goes beyond photography, employing a multifaceted composition to delve deeper into the theme of “concorde”—harmony. We invite you to experience the world of Takeshi Sumi’s art firsthand at the venue.

Profile: Takeshi Sumi

Born in Kyoto in 1981, Takeshi Sumi graduated from the School of Letters at Meiji University and later completed studies in Information Design at Tama Art University. His creative practice centers on photography and emphasizes physical sensation, exploring the theme of “discovering the world beyond what is visible.”

His published works include Sora ni Oyogu (Swimming in the Sky, 2012, Libro Arte) and Yubi to Hoshi (Fingers and Stars, 2019, Libro Arte). His works are part of the agnès b. collection, and he has contributed extensively to book covers and advertising visuals.

Sumi is also engaged in socially conscious art projects, such as Silhouette Family Exhibition (2023, organized by Kodomap), which focused on LGBTQ+ families.

Selected Solo Exhibitions

2025: Les Fantasies – What Once / Was / There – node hotel (Kyoto)
2024: For a better world – hIDE GALLERY TOKYO (Tokyo)
2023: Photographs, lost and born – hIDE GALLERY TOKYO (Tokyo)
2021: halo – BOOK AND SONS (Tokyo)
2020: Les Fantaisies – Galerie Grand E’Terna (Paris)
2019: Yubi to Hoshi – gallery Main (Kyoto)
2019: Fingers and Stars – Galerie Grand E’Terna (Paris)
2016: Existence is beyond the reflection and transmitted light – Shinpukan by gallery Main (Kyoto)
2015: Lumière et vous – Galerie Grand E’Terna (Paris)
2011: Hikari (Light) – Port Gallery T (Osaka)
2010: Meteor – Akarui Heya (Tokyo)

Art Projects

2023: Silhouette Family Exhibition – collaborative project with Kodomap (General Incorporated Association)

Selected Art Fairs

2024: ONE ART TAIPEI 2024 (Taipei) / hIDE GALLERY TOKYO
2023: ART FAIR ASIA FUKUOKA 2023 (Fukuoka) / hIDE GALLERY TOKYO
2017: fotofever (Paris) / gallery Main
2016: affordable art fair (New York)
2012: no found photo fair (Paris) / Libro Arte
2012: TOKYO PHOTO 2012 (Tokyo) / Libro Arte

Collections

2013: agnès b. collection

Publications

Yubi to Hoshi (Fingers and Stars), September 2019 – Libro Arte
Sora ni Oyogu (Swimming in the Sky), October 2012 – Libro Arte

Notable Work Contributions

2023: THE FORWARD vol.6 (Jitsugyo no Nihon Sha) – Cover
2022: Tōmei na Maku o Hedatenagara by Lin Kotomi (Hayakawa Publishing) – Cover
2022: Koi no Owari ni by Tsukuru Nishida (Gentosha) – Cover
2021: Kamisamatachi by Miki Mori (Kobunsha) – Cover
2020: JR Kyoto Isetan 20th Anniversary Visual
2020: Polaris ga Furisosogu Yoru by Lin Kotomi (Chikuma Shobō) – Cover
2020: Gunzō Vol.75 No.1 (Kodansha) – Cover
2019: Behavior by Junketsu Shindō (KADOKAWA, e-book) – Cover
2018: Spica for the Anonymous by Rio Shimamoto (Shoeisha, library edition) – Book Design

Exhibition Overview: Takeshi Sumi Solo Exhibition “concorde”

Dates: Friday, May 30 – Tuesday, July 1, 2025 (closed on Saturdays and Sundays)
Hours: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM (11:00 AM – 4:00 PM on the last day)
Venue: GARDE Gallery
NBF ALLIANCE Building 4F, 5-2-1 Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Admission: Free
URL: https://tinyurl.com/ys2z8hah

A New Wave: Cafés and Restaurants Curated by Luxury Brands

Trend

In recent years, renowned luxury brands such as Hermès, GUCCI, and Tiffany have increasingly opened cafés and restaurants.
In this article, we explore why luxury brands are entering the F&B industry and what’s driving this movement.

Recent Trends Among Luxury Brands

Overseas, brands like FENDI and Armani have launched hotels, while in Japan, Bulgari Hotel Tokyo opened in 2023. These spaces allow guests to enjoy the brand’s worldview, offering a unique experience distinct from traditional luxury hotels and becoming aspirational destinations for consumers.
Today’s consumers are shifting from material consumption to experiential consumption—seeking intangible values like experiences, emotions, and empathy.
Following this hotel trend, cafés and restaurants have become essential venues where brands can express their identity through space and menu, allowing visitors to engage with the brand’s essence in a more familiar setting.

Expressing the Brand World Through All Five Senses

Luxury brand cafés and restaurants are meticulously designed to embody the brand’s aesthetic and worldview.
From interior design, tableware, and music to the cuisine itself, every detail reflects the brand’s unique philosophy.

For example, the world’s first café restaurant by a luxury brand located in Shinsaibashi, Osaka, features a serene design in line with the brand’s identity.
The second branch, in Tokyo’s Ginza district, is characterized by a fresh and vibrant design inspired by the building’s exterior, offering a different take on the brand experience.
At both locations, signature brand products are displayed at the entrance as part of the décor, while elements like napkin holders and latte art feature the brand’s iconic designs.
These thoughtful touches elevate the sense of luxury and reinforce the brand’s presence throughout the customer experience.

AMI PARIS also opened “LE CAFÉ AMI” as a limited-time pop-up on Omotesando.
The first floor served as a dine-in area where guests could enjoy the AMI PARIS brand world, while the second floor offered branded merchandise.
The space served not only as a café, but as a deeper brand experience, strengthening emotional connection with the brand.

If a Brand Café or Restaurant Catches Your Eye, Be Sure to Visit

Luxury-brand cafés, restaurants, and hotels provide an approachable way to experience a brand’s world.
While entering a high-end boutique may feel intimidating, these cafés and restaurants can offer a gentler entry point into the brand.
We hope these unique spaces inspire you to visit a physical store and enjoy the brand’s universe firsthand.

A Thousand Years of Beauty, Shaping the Future: The Innovation of Nishijin-ori in Spatial Design

Trend

Nishijin-ori, a textile tradition passed down for over a thousand years in Kyoto’s Nishijin district, is renowned for its intricate craftsmanship and timeless beauty, with a history spanning more than 1,200 years. Internationally, this form of weaving—referred to broadly as “textile”—has gained attention in the field of spatial design, with prestigious brands such as Dior, Chanel, Hermès, and Cartier incorporating it into the interiors of their boutiques.

Innovative Applications of Nishijin-ori in Spatial Design

With its diverse techniques and intricate patterns, Nishijin-ori is now being reimagined as a contemporary interior fabric. For example, Watabun Co., Ltd., known for its expertise in obi weaving, has expanded its craftsmanship into the creation of interior textiles such as tapestries and art panels. Works like “Full Moon” and “Sand Ripples” skillfully incorporate the fukure-ori technique—one of Nishijin’s signature methods—bringing out a sense of depth, texture, and luster that transforms the fabric into an artistic centerpiece.

In addition, the brand KYOGO, developed by Kaji Orimono Co., Ltd., offers interior fabrics that blend traditional Nishijin weaving techniques with contemporary design. At its exhibition in ESPACE DENSAN, a Paris-based showroom in France, the brand showcased a wide range of products—including wallpapers, fabric panels, cushions, and shades—garnering high praise from international audiences.

Creating New Value Through Upcycling

Efforts to incorporate modern sensibilities into traditional materials and techniques are gaining attention—particularly through upcycling initiatives. One notable example is the collaboration between PLASTICITY, an upcycling brand that repurposes discarded vinyl umbrellas, Mori Hideshoku Co., Ltd. (a producer of Kiryu textiles), and creator Emi Arihisa. Together, they have developed and released a multi-shoulder case inspired by Kiryu-ori, reimagined through innovative redesign.

A Future Shaped by the Fusion of Tradition and Modernity

Nishijin-ori continues to evolve by merging time-honored craftsmanship and aesthetic sensibilities with contemporary design and technology, creating new forms of value.

One such example is Momono Hachian in Atami, located in the prestigious villa district of Kasuga-cho. Formerly an annex of a long-beloved ryokan, the 85-year-old building had been abandoned for five years before being restored and renovated into a curated hotel. In this revitalized space, Nishijin-ori fabrics designed by Jotaro Saito are used for the sofas and black salon chairs, achieving a refined balance between tradition and modern style.

However, due to a lack of successors in Japan, the overall kimono market has shrunk to one-fifth of its size over the past 30 years, and the market for high-end obi textiles—central to Nishijin-ori—has declined to just one-tenth. In response, more ateliers have begun embracing mechanization in a bid to preserve their craft.

We hope that the renewed attention on Nishijin-ori’s limitless potential will help convey its value and ensure its continued legacy for generations to come.