Japanese architect Kengo Kuma has designed two "Christmas trees" that are being exhibited in the lobbies of two high-end Toyko hotels, the Tokyo EDITION Ginza and the Tokyo EDITION Toranomon.  

Made from timber components, the trees will be crafted into furniture to be used at the two hotels. The exhibition will run until December 25 at the Tokyo Edition Ginza and until December 26 at the Tokyo Edition Toranomon.

The tree unit will be transformed into exquisite tables designed by Kengo Kuma and crafted by Japan-based Karimoku Furniture Inc. "These unique pieces will carry on the legacy of the original tree and will continue to live in different locations after the exhibition, said Kuma. The architect is known for myriad installations including aJpan’s 2020 Olympic Stadium.

"We’re thrilled to unveil our Festive trees, “KOMOREBI – sunlight through the leaves,” and “KIGUMI – woven woods,” now on display in the lobbies of The Tokyo EDITION, Toranomon, and The Tokyo EDITION, Ginza," said Kuma. "These sustainability-driven trees transform our holiday tradition into a meaningful, eco-friendly celebration.

“We designed Christmas trees to enliven the lobbies of The Tokyo EDITION, Toranomon, which opened in 2020, and The Tokyo EDITION, Ginza, which opened in 2024. Both trees were made by stacking small wooden units, each reflecting the unique character of the two neighborhoods. Each tree uses multiple tree species, contributing to the forest’s cycle and growth. After the Christmas season, the tree units are repurposed into furniture and reborn in new places. The result is a sustainable and eternal Christmas tree.”

The Ginza hotel will feature the “Kigumi" tree.  Ginza, according to the hotel group, is district where "cutting-edge technology and traditional Japanese culture are interwoven. To complement the architecture with a theme of 'weaving' and a lobby space envisioned as a jewelry box, we designed a Jewelry Tree formed by weaving together tree branches, “KIGUMI – woven wood,” said Kuma.

The Toranomon hotel is in a "youthful area constantly evolving with ongoing development. The theme of a bright “forest” inspired a tree design that gathers “KOMOREBI – sunlight through leaves” in the verticality of the lobby space.”

The special tables made from the repurposed tree will be available for purchase online. Additionally, we will create one-of-a-kind masterpieces from each tree, which will be offered through a silent auction. If demand exceeds supply, items will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis, and auction pieces will go to the highest bidders during the auction period.

In the spirit of the season’s cherished tradition of gift-giving, a portion of the proceeds from the furniture sale and auction will be generously donated to Make-A-Wish Japan, a distinguished public interest incorporated foundation dedicated to granting the heartfelt wishes of children facing critical illnesses.