
CLOTO Building, Kyoto
This is a renovation project of a nine story commercial building in central Kyoto city. After being striped back to the skeleton a full seismic upgrade was carried out (with Taishin Shindan Kikaku Engineers, Kyoto) including the installation of seismic damper bracing units. The Southern facade was opened up with additional glazing and a traditional Japanese pattern was created with two layers of metal mesh. One layer (the water pattern) is created with flat white perforated aluminium mesh and in front of that a complete layer of cor-ten steel expanded mesh was installed. The cor-ten steel quickly developed a soft red patina.

Corten steel mesh adds texture and depth to the street-facing facade.

Cloud-patterned plates glow subtly through the metal mesh.

An angled view of the mesh and soft cloud forms in harmony.

A refined facade blending strength and artistic expression.

Two layers—mesh and cloud plates—revealed from the back.

Seismic upgrade work begins with structural precision.

A key moment in strengthening the building’s core.

A key moment in strengthening the building’s core.

Close-up of engineered connections and framing.

Close-up of engineered connections and framing.