HOTEL GRANVIA HIROSHIMA SOUTH GATE

Setouchi unfolds beautifully through movement, revealing islands across the water, distant mountain ridges, and the gentle play of light on the Inland Sea. Hotel Granvia Hiroshima South Gate, strategically located above Hiroshima Station, provides travellers with a unique perspective of this stunning regional landscape right from the city's heart. Designed by Takashimaya Space Create, the hotel serves as a gateway to Setouchi, drawing inspiration from the Shimanami and Yamanami, elements that represent the layered profiles of the region's islands and mountains. This design not only offers an early glimpse of the enchanting landscapes beyond Hiroshima but also creates a tranquil atmosphere for those who opt to stay within the city. The interior reflects this regional essence through soft lighting and flowing forms, evoking a connection among sea, islands, and mountains without resorting to direct depictions of the scenery. Positioning above Hiroshima Station enhances the overall experience. Guests arriving at this central transportation hub enjoy breathtaking views of both sea and mountains from their windows. The interior design skillfully incorporates these vistas, making the natural landscape a fundamental part of the hotel’s identity. Artwork inspired by the winds of the Seto Inland Sea adds to the regional feel, while natural materials like rock salt and wood grain bring texture and depth, echoing the elemental beauty of water, land, and climate. Additionally, furniture made from reclaimed timber, sourced from trees that once lined the streets, fosters a direct connection to the site. This material carries with it a piece of the former streetscape, preserving a physical memory of the area as Hiroshima Station evolves. Such details enhance the hotel’s regional character, shaped by its materials, atmosphere, and outlook. Guests can feel Setouchi in the soft light, the movement suggested by the design, and the natural elements woven into the artwork and furnishings. Hotel Granvia Hiroshima South Gate stands as an introduction to its surroundings. From its vantage point above the station, the hotel bridges the urban center of Hiroshima with the expansive landscapes of the Inland Sea, providing travellers with a composed first experience of the region's light, mountains, and coastal charm.

The project expertly interprets the regional landscape through a sophisticated spatial rhythm. Its undulating forms and soft lighting capture the essence of Setouchi, immersing guests in an environment that feels deeply connected to the islands and the sea. The use of reclaimed street-tree timber adds remarkable precision to the sustainability narrative, grounding the commitment to environmental stewardship in the physical history of the site. By honoring the hotel’s prominent location above a major station, the design facilitates a seamless transition. Clear and intuitive circulation paths guide guests into lounges, where artwork and carefully modulated light create a serene and welcoming sanctuary.

Many gateway properties focus on basic functionality, but this project aims to enhance the traveler's experience and sense of place. Soft lighting, gently curved ceiling profiles, and kinetic art reflect the region's unique winds and currents, giving guests a preview of the beauty of Setouchi. The decision to salvage and repurpose local street-tree timber is a meaningful detail that connects the design to the site's history, transforming sustainability into a lasting and cherished memory for every visitor.

**IMAGE 01 — STATION-LINKED ARRIVAL** As guests enter, they transition from the bright surroundings of the station into a serene space filled with warm light and rich materials. The clear sightlines help maintain orientation while the atmosphere shifts immediately.

**IMAGE 02 — UNDULATING LOBBY CEILING** Long, curved profiles span the public area like overlapping ridges. Their rhythm gives the large space a regional connection without directly depicting any specific landscape.

**IMAGE 03 — SETOUCHI-INSPIRED ARTWORK** A suspended or wall-mounted artwork transforms elements of wind and water into a dynamic, reflective surface. The changing light alters the composition as guests move by.

**IMAGE 04 — WINDOW LOUNGE** Low seating is arranged to face actual views of the city, mountains, or sea. The weather outside enriches the interior palette and creates a dynamic horizon.

**IMAGE 05 — SALVAGED STREET-TREE FURNITURE** Reclaimed timber serves as tables or seating within the new hotel. The visible grain and irregularities preserve the physical memory of the original site.

**IMAGE 06 — ROCK-SALT MATERIAL DETAIL** Translucent mineral material captures warm light up close. Its elemental texture provides a tactile contrast to the polished finishes of the hospitality environment.

**IMAGE 07 — QUIET GUEST LOUNGE** Soft upholstery, timber accents, and indirect lighting create a tranquil setting away from the main circulation areas. The furniture is designed for both brief waiting times and longer stays.

**IMAGE 08 — NIGHT-TIME INTERIOR** Artificial lighting highlights the layered ceiling and artworks as outside views fade away. The regional atmosphere continues to permeate the space.concept remains legible through material and rhythm rather than daylight alone.

A hotel concept serves as a gateway to Japan's Setouchi Inland Sea. Inspired by the Shimanami and Yamanami routes of the Seto Inland Sea, the hotel’s design reflects the region's expansive natural beauty. The interior features materials that evoke soft light and a sense of undulation, complemented by artwork inspired by the winds of the Seto Inland Sea.

Located directly above Hiroshima Station in the city center, the hotel aims to harmonize with the views of the sea and mountains visible from its windows, providing a relaxing environment for guests. To promote environmental sustainability, furniture made from timber sourced from trees planted along the streets prior to the hotel’s construction has been incorporated into the design. Additionally, the artwork prominently features natural materials such as rock salt and wood grain.

A hotel concept is the gateway to Japan's inland sea, SETOUCHI Taking the Shimanami and Yamanami of the Seto Inland Sea as its design theme, the hotel expresses the expansive natural beauty inherent to this region. Its interior features materials evoking soft light and a sense of undulation, complemented by artwork inspired by the winds of the Seto Inland Sea. Located directly above Hiroshima Station in the city centre, the hotel strives to harmonize with the views of sea and mountains visible from its windows, offering a place for guests to relax and unwind.In consideration for the environment, timber from trees planted along the streets prior to this building's construction was used for some of the furniture. The art also makes extensive use of natural materials, such as rock salt and wood grain.

Prepared for Merci Magazine × Sky Design Awards 2026