Another example of collaboration between the Louis Vuitton brand and architect Jun Aoki in Japan showcases a design inspired by maritime themes, again referencing the Edo period. The building resembles an airy sailing ship, seemingly gliding through the city. Its design is based on the traditional cargo vessel Higaki Kaisen (菱垣廻船), which transported goods from Osaka to the capital during the Edo era. This architectural metaphor reflects the city’s legacy as a major port in Japan and harmonizes with Osaka’s identity as the "City of Water," where numerous rivers and canals facilitated trade.

The 3D forms of the sail profiles are constructed from curved glass panels, each featuring double glazing for enhanced transparency. One layer is coated with ceramic frit (a special mixture used for producing white, colored, and transparent glazes), which eliminates the initial greenish tint and mimics the effect of white fabric.

Additionally, this location is home to the world’s first Louis Vuitton café, Le Café V, as well as their inaugural restaurant, Sugalabo V.

Name: Louis Vuitton Maison Osaka Midosuji / ルイ･ヴィトン メゾン 大阪御堂筋
City: Osaka
Address: view the address
Architect: Jun Aoki
Year: 2020


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