Inspired by the beauty and simplicity of Japanese craftsmanship, Hilton’s first LXR Hotels & Resorts branded hotel in Asia Pacific, ROKU KYOTO, is honoured for its elegant design concept by Singapore-based interior design studio BLINK. We took a closer look at the elegant resort nestled at the foot of the Takagamine mountains in Japan…
ROKU KYOTO became Hilton’s first LXR Hotels & Resorts branded hotel in Asia Pacific when it opened its doors in autumn 2021. This luxury label is only given to the finest five-star properties in alluring locations around the world, so BLINK had a responsibility to ensure that this project showcased the spirit of the brand and the essence of its destination.
Image credit: ROKU KYOTO / BLINK / Ben Richards
Named after the time-honoured artisan tradition of paper making, ROKU KYOTO was inspired by the beauty and simplicity of Japanese craftsmanship. In line with this design ethos, BLINK strived to weave the local aesthetic into every aspect of the resort’s interiors, from the arrival lobby and pavilion-style dining area to the wooden tea lounge, the serene spa and of course, all 114 contemporary guestrooms and suites which range from 50 to 110 square metres in size and all with an inherent sense of minimalistic grace.
Image credit: ROKU KYOTO / Blink / Ben Richards
This tranquil sanctuary also blends seamlessly with its surroundings, which have influenced artists for centuries. By embracing natural materials such as bamboo and wood, and using glass walls and panoramic windows to frame breath-taking views of the forested hills and the Tenjin River from all areas of the resort, ROKU KYOTO feels at one with the environment.
“We are thrilled to win the KOHLER Bold Design Award for ROKU KYOTO, which is one of our most important projects to date,” said Clint Nagata, Founder & Creative Partner, BLINK Design Group.”As the first LXR branded resort in Asia Pacific, we knew that Hilton and the owners were seeking a one-of-a-kind design concept – a resort that would stand out from the crowd while also blending into the landscape. We took inspiration from Kyoto’s rich heritage, organic beauty and Zen philosophy to create a concept that is both authentic and elegant, while also being cutting-edge and contemporary.”
Image credit: ROKU KYOTO / Blink / Ben Richards
The Kohler Bold Design Awards is one of the most prominent design competitions for hospitality, residential and commercial property professionals in Asia Pacific. It serves as a platform to showcase the top talents in their field and the winners are selected by a jury of renowned international designers and independent experts. The ‘Travel: Resort’ award achieved by ROKU KYOTO recognises the project’s positive contribution to hospitality design and the advancement of the guest experience.
Main image credit: ROKU KYOTO / Blink / Ben Richards
