K5 – The Uniform K5 - The Uniform

“You never feel too hot or cold,”

Since 1923, it was the home of Dai-ichi Bank, now it is the grandeur location of newly opened K5. As one enters the building, its rich history seems to ooze from the impressive stone foundations and high ceilings. Renovated and designed by architecture firm Claesson Koivisto Rune, the interior possesses a unique feel of both Swedish and Japanese design. In addition to offering 20 boutique hotel rooms, food, and drinks can be enjoyed at restaurant CAVEMAN, Switch Coffee, library bar Ao as well as Beer Hall B, located inside the facilities. Entering the hotel entrance, guests are greeted by the hotel staff. Alongside fellow staff member Yuuki, receptionist Shiho is wearing a thin charcoal-colored cardigan and matching Merino wool pants. Specially designed and made by Icebreaker, its Merino wool is brought over from New Zealand and then produced locally in Japan.

“You never feel too hot or cold,” says Shiho when describing her work uniform. In comparison to standard wool that is thick and heavy, the Merino wool is super thin and light on the body. The clothes possess unique insulation properties, letting the skin breathe as well as keep the body warm throughout the day.

“It’s peculiar almost, even though the fabric is very light it keeps me warm even during the coldest days. Sometimes when serving customers I have to move around a lot, but I never feel like I break a sweat in this uniform.” Shiho adds. Glancing around the hotel facilities, absorbing the sleek lines of the bright cedar wood wall panels and wild pops of greens from pot plants, one can notice several connecting dots between K5 and Icebreaker.

“When planning the K5 project there were many factors that we took into consideration.” Says
Akihiro Matsui, head of tenant curating and branding. He continues explaining that function,
material, handicraft, and time are the four things that make K5’s brand so important.

“Icebreaker complements that vision very well. Not only with its functionality but also with its materials. They have serious long-term relationships with their wool farmers, creating simple and beautiful wear that can withstand the test of time. From the beginning of this project, I wanted to use Icebreaker.”

At K5 they value providing a sense of trust and security for their staying guests while also
ensuring mobility and comfort for the hardworking hotel staff. There is an emphasis on
sustainability, constantly evaluating their actions, making sure that the choices that are made are genuine and transparent in the process. Matsui reflects over his own impression of Icebreaker throughout recent years. “As I travel a lot with work I often bring Icebreaker t-shirts and socks with me in-flight. Although it’s an outdoor brand, it’s everyday wear. ”

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