LIM is a minimal space located in Osaka, Japan, designed by Schemata Architects. The client explained to us that the name “LIM” is derived from “Less Is More,” a famous quote by the modernist maestro Mies van der Rohe. In order to keep the cost low, they used readymade steel racks as the basic structures for fixtures including shelves, modified them, and changed the finish to unichrome plating, and configured the space with them. Mirrors, which are essential items in a hair salon, were made as large as possible and placed at regular intervals. They are designed in such a way that they can be moved to clear the space and make room for events including flea markets. As a result, the studio have created a space where people can experience the most refreshing wide-open space in Kansai. At the back of this space, there is a salon called “loji,” which is not divided by partitions. It is a salon for young customers who enjoy changing their hair styles as if enjoying fashion, with low prices and services provided by young stylists in training. It is a stepping stone for young stylists. Those who gain young customers and horn their professional skills there will move on to LIM. In order to further reduce the cost, they kept the green color of readymade steel racks and used as many readymade parts as possible without modifying the shapes too much.

Photography by Takumi Ota

View more works by Schemata Architects