01-JANUARY-JAPAN-A personal project for 2026

It has been a while since my last blog and this one is about a particular idea that came into my mind: why to wait until later years to share the design images of the many places I visited...The exercise was to create a daily post for the same country each month, using the first letter of the month as reference-For January, I chose Japan.

My first visit to Japan was in June 2006, I was invited by my best friend who won two flight tickets at an event. The pictures here are from that trip. We went to Tokyo for a few days and it is difficult to describe what it was to see the architecture of this megacity and the contrast from old vs new-tradition vs modernism, order vs organised chaos-horizontal vs vertical lines.

From a designer point of view, I was very impressed by the use of color-Vibrant red, white and gold details constrating with grey roof tiles. The symmetry and perfection in each element of the design composition. The use of simple materials in a refined way and the respect from the public for each building, no matter how small or big.

Wood: The way this material is used in Japanese design reflects their appreciation for nature: simple can be beautiful, less can be more, it goes from furniture to floors, doors, windows, balustrades, roofs and everyday common utensils. Traditional and modern uses creates an unique combination that reflects the uniqueness of this country.

Stone: Similar to wood, this natural material is used in a very special way. From street lanterns, to sculptures, fountains and floor paving, the delicate treatment given to each element provides inspiration that goes beyond words and that conveys the spirit of this nation.

Spirals: This is an element that I am personally fascinated with. From old buildings and temple spires to Observation Towers to see the city from above. I truly believe: The sky is the limit!

All the images in this blog as been taken by me (jose@olivares.hk) and if you want to see-comment each daily image for January, please check our Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/olivares_hoteldesign/#