Perhaps more so than any other MORI LIVING residence, Roppongi Sakura-zaka Residence is a place for families. The building is located just behind Roppongi Hills and next door to The American School in Japan Early Learning Center, on a quiet back street called Sakurazaka. Just down the hill is Azabu Juban, with its quaint shops and restaurants, and a short walk away is Hiroo, home to the beautiful and lush Arisugawa Memorial Park.

But until recently, residents didn't necessarily feel a sense of "home" upon entering the residence itself. The lobby was decorated in a very minimalist modern style. The staff of the residence realizes the shortcomings of the entrance, and requested a redesign. Interior designer Yumi Tezuka of Libra Style was brought in to do the job.

Starting with the idea of creating a space that was warm and welcoming for the families living in the residence, Tezuka brought in large, cushy sofas upholstered in soft shades of blue and green. She complemented these with natural wood tables, throw pillows of patterned velour, and a hand woven Turkish rug (called a kilim) patterned after flowing water. The warm, inviting feeling was completed with light fixtures in organic shapes covered in soft Japanese inshuwashi paper.

Tezuka says that her goal with the space was to create something natural and warm--a lobby area that gave residents a sense of home immediately upon entering the building. The reaction from both staff and residents has been undeniably positive--the staff say that the area is now a much more mellow, relaxing and enjoyable place to work, allowing them to give even better service.

As for the residents, their actions speak for themselves: after seeing Tezuka's work, a few of them have already consulted with Libra Style on redecorating their own apartments. This, I would venture to say, is the biggest stamp of approval she could get.

Kelly