A Fusion of Japanese Elegance and Mediterranean Charm in Tirana
Project: Vila Yamato
Studio: VARKA Atelier
Status: Completed in 2021
Photography: Leonit Ibrahimi
Source: PikArk, VARKA Atelier
Vila Yamato is a restaurant project by VARKA Atelier that brings Japanese identity and heritage to the vibrant urban landscape of Tirana. Situated in and around a historical building that has been poorly interpreted over the past three decades, this project navigates the delicate balance of merging two distinct cultures and mentalities.
The design concept stemmed from key questions the architects posed: should the space be open or closed to the city, immediately visible or requiring deeper exploration, overtly visual or semi-transparent, meticulously curated or showing the honest marks of time? These inquiries laid the philosophical groundwork for a unique atmospheric experience.
Their approach to the building focused on removing layers that had been added over its various life cycles, often in tasteless or poorly executed ways. By stripping the structure back to its essence, we revealed the original tectonics and craftsmanship of the building’s 100-year history. This minimalist strategy extends from the exterior to the interior, achieving a harmonious presence of natural materials like wood and terracotta. These materials not only root the building in its local context but also showcase the authentic history of its construction.
Japanese folklore offers a fascinating perspective on imperfection and repair, particularly through the philosophy of Wabi-Sabi and the practice of Kintsugi. Rather than concealing flaws, the Japanese tradition highlights and dignifies them with careful, elegant repairs using precious materials. Wabi-Sabi finds beauty in imperfection and the passage of time, valuing the story and history evident in an object’s wear and aging. This philosophy embraces simplicity and the expression of elegance through modesty.
The surrounding mantle acts as a perimeter inspired by the Chinese fan-veil object, creating an outdoor covered space and intimacy. The deliberate framing of beauty and nature gives way to elegance through the noble modesty of the materials. Breakage and repair are precious parts of life, contributing to the unique history of a person or object, adding to their dignity.
Villa Yamato provides an exclusive experience that respects the city’s context in a selective manner. The garden that locates inside the perimeter is inspired by the Japanese culture’s deep connection with the sea and its artistic interpretations. This garden buffer separates the city’s noise from the serene, intimate experience inside, enhancing the ceremonial atmosphere. The careful framing of natural beauty through materials adds a touch of charm and sophistication to the overall design.
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