A Kyoto hotel offering a most satisfying experience for the design traveler seeking elevated, yet unfussy accommodations.

Japanese architect Kengo Kuma’s imprint is subtle but evident across the latest Ace Hotel destination located in the historic and former capital of Japan, Kyoto. The new 213 room hotel is a part new, part historic structure co-designed by Kuma within the former confines of the Kyoto Central Telephone Company originally designed by architect Tetsuro Yoshida, arriving ahead of this year’s 2020 Tokyo Olympics for design aficionados.

I intended to design a ?Cultural Catalyst? for various people to visit and create a seamless relationship with Kyoto’s community.
? Kengo Kuma, Principal, Kengo Kuma and Associates
The hallmarks of the relaxed air Ace Hotels offers guests make a surprisingly natural partner to Kuma’s affinity for simple, honest surfaces ? an effect further harmonized by the contributions of award-winning and longtime Ace partner, Commune Design.
The contemporary, yet warmly executed use of materiality of wood throughout references Japan’s characteristic respect for unfussy natural surfaces, offering guests a stay unencumbered by formality.

The proximity of a verdant garden courtyard, accompanied with additional features such as an art gallery and event spaces decorated with works in collaboration with local artists further underscores the tranquil modernity offered. A cafe and three stand-alone restaur...