It was in late autumn of 2018, four years before the museum's opening, that Mr and Mrs Ando told me their vision for the museum.

Their wish was to show their collection in a place that felt like home rather than a typical 'museum.' To bring their visions to life, I aimed to create a hospitable museum incorporating elements of their homes that reflect their style and personality.

Like one of the Ando residences, the building has a courtyard and walls clad with handmade bricks imported from the UK, where they formerly lived. Another design feature I referenced from their home was painting the walls of each gallery space in different colours. Reflecting the themes of each room, not only the wall colours but also the shapes of ceilings and lighting methods were varied, expressing the trajectory of Foujita's life and the range of his artistry. Unlike neutral white galleries, I believe this variety enhances the visitors' experience to immerse themselves and appreciate the artworks fully.

Besides taking cues from the Ando residences, I also took inspiration from two significant places related to Foujita in France; Maison-Atelier Foujita, where he spent his remaining years; and Foujita Chapel, designed and frescoed by the painter himself. Visiting them during the early design stages nurtured a better understanding of the artist and helped me make the museum a place that reflects his life and art.

Another important design factor of the museum was bringing in the richness of nature. The windows facing the courtyard offer a refreshing view of the sky and greenery between the enclosed galleries. Thanks to the location, the cosy viewing lounge on the second floor invites visitors to relax and enjoy the view of Mt. Asama and Mt. Hanareyama, two iconic symbols of Karuizawa's landscape.

Lastly, decorative motifs derived from the museum's logo are utilised in various places of the building. It might be a fun side project to look for them while enjoying Foujita's works.

I hope visitors will have a fantastic time exploring the work of Foujita and feel as if Musée Ando à Karuizawa is their own home.

Yasumi Taketomi, Representative Director, d/dt Arch.