There is the Aston Martin of dream-inspiring sports cars. Then, the one that competes in Formula 1, still awaiting the first fruits of the work of Adrian Newey, the aerodynamics genius. And there is a third version of the British house because, as they themselves claim, "design is something that transcends inspiration in the automotive field." Hence their search for references in fashion, cuisine, or architecture, where they already have two buildings bearing their signature in Miami and on Al Marjan Island (United Arab Emirates).
Two projects that are now followed by N°001 Minami Aoyama. This is their first ultra-luxury private residence designed in Asia and must be understood as anchored to the brand's expansion in that region.
Located in Tokyo, in the exclusive Omotesando neighborhood, it boasts dimensions uncommon in the land of capsule hotels: 724 square meters on three floors and a basement designed to take advantage of the slope of the land, featuring space for a gym, a wine cellar, a golf simulator, a spa, and three bedrooms.
However, it is other unique elements that define the project. For example, the facade of metal sheets that change color depending on how the light hits them. Or the sculptural staircase that connects the basement to the first floor: built in folded steel, it encloses an internal garden and is inspired by origami, the Japanese art of creating figures by folding paper, without using scissors or glue.
And, as the crown jewel, a gallery. Not of art (or maybe so) but of automobiles. It is an exhibition space located on the ground floor that allows its owner to park up to two vehicles - presumably Aston Martin - which can remain hidden from strangers' views; but which he can always admire from inside the house, as the gallery is connected to the living room and a meeting room.
Developed in collaboration with the prestigious Japanese real estate company VIBROA, the residence features top-notch materials: black volcanic stone, gray oak woodwork, nebula steel, and natural hinoki wood alternating with high-quality Italian furniture, several of them signed by Molteni&C.
In N°001 Minami Aoyama, nothing is chosen at random. In its upward journey, the materials transition from dark tones to lighter ones that mimic the path towards light. Everything culminates in a spectacular terrace with an outdoor kitchen, a garden area, and panoramic views of the sunset that allow for the contemplation of the Tokyo Tower. A combination of privileges for which its owner would have paid around 20 million euros.