Architectural Cases

Experience Architecture Transformed: A Journey into a Sculpted Void

Discovering 'Space II': A Residential Metamorphosis in Kannawa, Japan

In the vibrant geothermal community of Kannawa, located within Beppu, Oita Prefecture, Japan, the innovative art group Me [mé] unveils its latest creation, 'Space II' (2025). This large-scale artistic endeavor is situated within a private dwelling, which has been dramatically reconfigured. The structure now features a series of unconventional openings, their edges left in a raw, organic state, suggesting that the interior has been naturally eroded. Rather than leading to typical rooms, these apertures reveal a profound rupture, reminiscent of a natural grotto or a deep chasm, emphasizing a connection to the earth's primal forces over human construction.

Redefining Architectural Perception: Beyond Walls and Enclosures

The Japanese artists behind Me [mé] approach 'Space II' by subtracting existing elements from the building, rather than adding new ones. This method transforms the dwelling's interior, where traditional walls and floors give way to a continuous, cavernous expanse. The surfaces within this new space are textured, recalling the patterns of weathered rock formations and ancient volcanic layers. Subtle handrails are integrated to guide visitors through this unique environment, providing necessary support without detracting from the raw, experiential nature of the installation.

Light and Landscape: A Dialogue with the Outside World

Natural light filters into 'Space II' through its various openings, drawing in fleeting glimpses of Kannawa's urban fabric—its rooftops, bustling streets, and passing inhabitants. This infusion of external elements into the sculpted interior prompts observers to view the familiar world through a refreshed, often disorienting lens. The interplay of light and shadow within the void creates an ever-changing visual narrative, enhancing the sense of a temporary, altered reality.

Echoes of Earth: Kannawa's Volcanic History Embodied

Situated within the Geothermal Tourism Lab ENMA Annex, 'Space II' is deeply connected to Beppu's rich geological and cultural heritage. Kannawa, a region shaped by countless volcanic eruptions and seismic shifts, was once regarded with apprehension but later embraced for its healing hot springs. Me [mé] delves into this tumultuous past, envisioning a time when the land was still actively evolving, untamed by human constructs such as language, tourism, or infrastructure. The cavernous forms within the installation mirror the town's essence—its structures, its people, and its natural surroundings—while simultaneously offering a momentary escape from them.

From Overlay to Erasure: A Shift in Artistic Strategy

'Space II' builds upon Me [mé]'s previous work, 'Space' (2020), which was exhibited at the Towada Art Center. In that earlier project, a pristine, museum-like exhibition space was unexpectedly introduced into a retro snack bar. However, with 'Space II', the artistic methodology evolves significantly. Instead of juxtaposing disparate contexts, the collective opts for a strategy of removal, effectively stripping away conventional contextual elements to create an entirely new, unburdened experience.

VIDA has launched an innovative electric dirt bike for children, the DIRT.E K3, ingeniously designed to adapt to a child's growth. This groundbreaking two-wheeler features modular components that allow it to be adjusted in size as young riders get older and taller. Rather than requiring parents to purchase new bikes frequently, the DIRT.E K3 evolves with the child, making it a sustainable and cost-effective solution for families. Its smart system facilitates adjustments across three different sizes, ensuring that the 'rider triangle' \u2013 encompassing seat height, riding position, and the distance between the seat, handlebars, and foot pegs \u2013 remains optimal for enhanced balance, control, and a smoother riding experience.

VIDA's DIRT.E K3: The Electric Dirt Bike Designed for Growing Riders and Parental Control

The DIRT.E K3, developed by VIDA, represents a significant leap in children's off-road biking. Unveiled at EICMA 2025 and subsequently recognized with the Red Dot Award 2025 and CES Innovation Award 2026, this electric dirt bike prioritizes safety and adaptability. A key feature is its accompanying mobile application, which empowers parents to regulate the bike's speed and acceleration. This allows for customized riding modes tailored to the child's skill level and the terrain, ensuring a safe learning environment. As children gain confidence, settings can be easily modified to match their evolving abilities. The app also provides valuable insights into the bike's usage, helping parents manage maintenance and charging schedules. From a design perspective, the DIRT.E K3 boasts adjustable forks at the front to increase height and a frame that can be extended using screws, all while maintaining consistent tire control and size. With plans to enter new markets, including India, VIDA aims to make this adjustable and intelligent dirt bike accessible to a wider global audience.

This innovative design offers a refreshing perspective on children's recreational vehicles, highlighting the potential for products to grow and adapt alongside their users. It underscores the value of thoughtful engineering that not only addresses practical needs, such as cost and sustainability but also prioritizes safety and a personalized experience. The DIRT.E K3 sets a new benchmark for how children's products can be designed to be both enduring and engaging, fostering a love for outdoor activities while reassuring parents with advanced control features.