Add To Collection
Add to Collection
CHATAI
CHATAI
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
View Original
Add To Collection
Add to Collection
Other Projects by NIKKEN SEKKEI LTD
CHATAI
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Firm
Type
STATUS
Built
YEAR
2025
SIZE
0 sqft - 1000 sqft
BUDGET
Undisclosed
Photos
CHATAI - Subtle beauty of shared traditions and moments of joy for all
Pavilions are often spaces to imagine how architecture shapes human experience, but CHATAI opens as a gentle invitation: the subtle scent of hinoki draws visitors in, light filters through timber lattices, and the quiet rhythm of space encourages pause, reflection, and connection. Every detail, every joint, every material is considered so that this reusable structure transcends its form, becoming a space of enduring experience.
Reinterpreting Japanese tradition as a contemporary, poetic environment, CHATAI draws inspiration from the contrasting qualities of tea rooms (Chashitsu) and the informal vitality of food stalls (Yatai). These references are translated into a light, airy spatial composition defined by restraint, clarity, and carefully considered detail.
At its core stands a 5.6-metre cubic timber frame, meticulously crafted using traditional Japanese woodworking techniques. Every joint is precisely formed, every connection carefully considered, expressing structural clarity without ornament. CHATAI was realized through a rare cross-cultural collaboration between a major global design firm and a traditional Japanese carpentry atelier—bringing centuries-old handcraft into dialogue with contemporary international design.
Japanese craftsmanship lies at the heart of the pavilion. From careful timber selection to the final assembly, each piece is shaped through a quiet dialogue between craftsperson and material, resulting in a structure that is robust yet delicately expressive.
Visitors of all ages were drawn to its approachable and tactile atmosphere. Many described CHATAI as a calm retreat—a moment of stillness amidst the festival’s energy. Some connected and became friends; others paused and reflected. Through timber joinery, tatami, lighting, and spatial composition, CHATAI embodies Omotenashi—the spirit of Japanese hospitality—demonstrating how thoughtful design can create not only space, but shared moments of joy.
Pavilions are often spaces to imagine how architecture shapes human experience, but CHATAI opens as a gentle invitation: the subtle scent of hinoki draws visitors in, light filters through timber lattices, and the quiet rhythm of space encourages pause, reflection, and connection. Every detail, every joint, every material is considered so that this reusable structure transcends its form, becoming a space of enduring experience.
Reinterpreting Japanese tradition as a contemporary, poetic environment, CHATAI draws inspiration from the contrasting qualities of tea rooms (Chashitsu) and the informal vitality of food stalls (Yatai). These references are translated into a light, airy spatial composition defined by restraint, clarity, and carefully considered detail.
At its core stands a 5.6-metre cubic timber frame, meticulously crafted using traditional Japanese woodworking techniques. Every joint is precisely formed, every connection carefully considered, expressing structural clarity without ornament. CHATAI was realized through a rare cross-cultural collaboration between a major global design firm and a traditional Japanese carpentry atelier—bringing centuries-old handcraft into dialogue with contemporary international design.
Japanese craftsmanship lies at the heart of the pavilion. From careful timber selection to the final assembly, each piece is shaped through a quiet dialogue between craftsperson and material, resulting in a structure that is robust yet delicately expressive.
Visitors of all ages were drawn to its approachable and tactile atmosphere. Many described CHATAI as a calm retreat—a moment of stillness amidst the festival’s energy. Some connected and became friends; others paused and reflected. Through timber joinery, tatami, lighting, and spatial composition, CHATAI embodies Omotenashi—the spirit of Japanese hospitality—demonstrating how thoughtful design can create not only space, but shared moments of joy.
Product Spec Sheet
Were your products used?
Join as a manufacturer to add your products.