Introducing Design-Led Hotel Zentis Osaka

Osaka gets its first Design Hotel™ in the form of Zentis Osaka, the debut opening of a new hotel brand by the group behind the Palace Hotel Tokyo, with interiors by British designer Tara Bernerd

A calligraphic swirl of black ink above the bed, natural textiles in taupes and greys, light sage bathroom tiles, and a neatly compact layout inspired by the Japanese bento box — welcome to The Zentis Osaka, which recently overcame the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic to open its doors in the downtown district of Dojimahama in Osaka, Japan.

The first Design Hotels™ property in a city short of reasonably priced design establishments, Zentis Osaka is the debut opening of a new hotel brand created by the group behind the Palace Hotel Tokyo.

Housed in a new 16-storey tower by architects Toshiken and Kajima Design, its interiors were created by London-based interior architectural practice Tara Bernerd & Partners. ‘It was very interesting to be designing a hotel in this densely built-up area, creating an oasis in the heart of the city,’ Bernerd says of her first project in Japan.

Serene and minimal with a modern European edge, the 212-key hotel features outdoor terraces and a palette of natural materials from Ceppo stone to timber.

‘Zentis Osaka brings a freshness and new approach to the local hotel market,’ says Bernerd. ‘It has been designed in a holistic way to be a home from home, set in a garden in this dense part of Osaka.’ The transition from urban bustle to relaxation begins immediately, with the building discreetly set back from the road, its entrance flanked by greenery and leading to a serene lobby with an expanse of natural materials alongside crafted artworks.

Gloved staff greet guests at the front desk, which is fashioned from vertical bricks capped with a green marble top, while abstract artworks on washi paper by Japanese collective Ubushina hang on nearby walls in layered shades of grey and mustard.

Designed to create a residential ambience, the ground floor is outfitted with bookcases, plants and sofas, with a modern glass fireplace connecting interiors with a relaxed exterior garden space. But the highlight is the scene-stealing staircase, with clean-lined modern steps of blue limestone and handlebars wrapped in light leather. ‘The lobby provides an open and casual welcome, with the architecturally inspired blue limestone staircase anchoring the space,’ says Bernerd. ‘Sculptural in style and materiality, the staircase is visible from street level and makes a real impact on arrival.’

The staircase leads to the aptly named UPSTAIRZ, helmed by executive chef Shinya Otsuchihashi who is known in Japan for his Michelin-starred Tokyo establishment CRAFTALE. The space features walls of windows, a large fireplace, outdoor terraces, timber beams, exposed brickwork and blue patterned floor tiling that offers a hint of modern Europe.

This low-key modern palette continues in the guestrooms, which Bernerd says were inspired by the modular design of a Japanese bento box. It takes a moment for the concept to come into focus, but it soon emerges in the multiple square and rectangular forms that make up the layout, from the sleeping area and walk-in shower to the glass-walled bathrooms.

The end result? Rooms that are compact but comfortable (and reasonably priced), with calligraphic artworks by artist Masami Ehara, handwoven throws from Ireland, forest green ceramic bedside tables by Japan’s famed Shigaraki potters and mid-century-inspired chairs by OOKKUU.

‘Imagining the guestrooms like a traditional Japanese bento box, we devised interlocking layouts to optimise the limited floorplate and create a functional yet inviting sanctuary for guests,’ Bernerd explains.

Text / Danielle Demetriou
Images / Stirling Elmendorf