Gokan KITTE Osaka by RENS., NOMURA Co., Ltd (Japan)

Aug 26

Cacaotier Gokan, a chocolatier committed to stimulating all “five senses,” visits cacao-producing regions and, starting from the bean, collaborates with cacao farmers to create uncompromising chocolate.

In the process of making chocolate, the husk of the cacao bean, which comprises 20~30% of the bean, is always removed as it would worsen the flavor of the chocolate. Most of it ends up as industrial waste. How to make effective use of the husks has become a social issue. This project focused on the potential usefulness of cacao husk as an interior-finishing material. The cacao husks generated from the chocolate-making process were pulverized and then kneaded into a material developed as the main finishing element exclusive to this store’s interior. Skilled plasterers then applied the finish as if working with chocolate. This cacao husk-infused finish helps control indoor humidity with its moisture-regulating properties, and the aroma of the husks is expected to reduce stress and promote relaxation. By upcycling cacao husks, which had not been effectively utilized until now, the project discovered new possibilities for this material.

The store is prominently located facing a major passageway directly connected to Osaka Station’s new ticket gate, which is expected to become a new gateway. Inside the store, cacao bean silhouettes continuously connect and generously envelop the entire space. The silhouette, inspired by the contours of the cacao pod, forms a symbolic facade, expressing the beauty of nature.

We hope chocolate carefully crafted from select cacao beans harmonizing with the cacao husk-infused space allowsguests to fully immerse themselves in the allure of cacao.