© Park Associati / Photography: Andrea Martiradonna

The Tenoha store and restaurant in Tokyo‘s Daikanyama district is a hybrid concept that effortlessly appeals to the eclectic taste level of a young clientele. while the restaurant strictly serves Italian fare, the boutique exclusively stocks artisanal ceramics, furniture pieces, kitchen utensils and other domestic goods from the homeland. Completing the lifestyle experience for the pickiest of demographics, is a homey co-working space on the premises. and now, the hospitality concept has been transplanted halfway across the planet, taking root in Navigli, a former industrial neighbourhood of Milan. Although still rough around the edges, the area has become home to cool watering holes and indie boutiques during the past two decades, and as of late, gentrification seems to further accelerate. The site of Tenoha Milano is the ground floor of a former wallpaper factory on Via Vigevano, one of the neighbourhood’s main thoroughfares.

Built in 1931, the 2,500 sqm. (26,910 sq.ft.) space is awash with industrial details, and these have been seamlessly embedded in the interior design by Milanese architecture practice Park Associati. So, the set-up of the new Italian outpost is pretty similar, and features five distinct sections that each serve a different activity. upon entering the premises, visitors first come a cross the venue’s well-stocked boutique. Situated in a lofty, voluminous space that’s flooded by daylight coming through three large windows, stocks a tightly curated range of traditional lifestyle goods from the land of the rising sun, ranging fashion items to tableware and even food products, all presented on simple wooden tables, displays and shelving that honour the artisanal quality of the merchandise. The adjacent Ando café + restaurant faces the tranquil courtyard, offering a place where to sit back and relax over a tasty bite and drink.

Seating a maximum of 130 guests, the setting is equally understated, but the abundant use of wood and potted plants creates a friendly atmosphere. At the far end, secluded private boxes are situated, and in true japanese style, guests are seated on tatami mats. Special attention has been given to the light fixtures. the seasonal menu lists Japanese dishes with an Italian twist, but also authentic fare from the land of the rising sun. Tenoha Milano‘s elaborate co-working space is accessible by members only, and features a communal space furnished with two rows of flexible desks, but also shared office desks, and even shared office rooms. Obviously, the space also comes with with high-speed internet, printers, and personal lockers. also to be found on the premises is an event space that’s suitable for just about any activity, and  a pop-up space where different presentations will be held on a weekly basis.

Tenoha Milano
Via Vigevano 18 (Navigli)
20144 Milan
Telephone: +39 02 80889870
Daily 10.30-8.30

© Park Associati / Photography: Andrea Martiradonna