Concept
A variety of people gather in the 'Big Blank'. There are people who are shy buy would like to make some friends, or tired and want some down time… we will make the ‘Big Blank’ a lounging space, which such people can, in harmony, share. Activities and sequences take place, becoming catalysts and connecting guests to one another.

There are varieties of ways in which these travellers exchange, which exists in an appropriate form in this space according to the number or active people. The ‘Big Blank’ is arranged in such a way as to gather various forms of exchange in the center. This concept is discovered by constructing bedrooms which surround the ‘Big Blank’, so that all travellers are encouraged to participate as the see the activities from their bedroom opening. These openings are neither doors nor windows, but rather channels to allow guests to connect and communicate with each other. 

In addition, there is a narrow corridor along the outer peripherals of the building. This has allowed a new arrangement of each function, reducing the distance between the bedrooms and community space which had been interrupted by a long corridor until. This further prompts the exchange.

The ‘Big Blank’ is always available as a lounge, dining area and so on. What’s more, at times in partnership with locals and students, various Japanese cultural events are held in this space. For instance, watching Japanese movies, Sumo competitions, flea markets and so on, driving this space to become more than just a hostel lounge, a community space, allowing guests and locals to connect.

Not only has a ceiling height gap between the ‘Big Blank’ and the corridor has been established, but character has been given to each functional space by incorporating elements of Japanese architecture. In the corridor, the ceiling height has been reduced, making the view to Tokyo’s landscape stand out. This is contrasted to the ‘Big Blank’s’ higher ceiling, developing the open-minded atmosphere of this space. In addition, this ceiling gap ensures the privacy of guests in their bedrooms.

People can choose to participate in events or watch them through their bedroom opening as they please. By necessity, guests can close their bedroom opening and pull the curtain to take a rest and gain privacy. The guests of this Hostel can choose their situation. Rather than creating a forced exchange, guests are given options, the seeds of exchange are sown… this is why we designed such a space.