The Sfera Project came about through a fortuitous meeting between thecutting-edge Swedish architectural team CKR (Maten Claesson, Eero Koivisto, Ola Rune) and an attempt to develop an image of a "new Kyoto" in Gion,one ofthe oldest sections of Kyoto.

The Sfera Building, the principle locus of the Project, comprises five levels, each section with its own unique sensibility: the existing two Ricordi restaurants [Ristoranti Ricordi and Enoteca Ricordi], which were the　cornerstone enterprises of Ricordi and Sfera Co, Ltd; and now after renovation, the newly opened Sfera Japanese restaurant, design shop,exhibition space and bookshop.

All planned and operated to　uncompromising standards under the direction of Ricordi and Sfera. Located at the entrance to Kyoto's most famous antique district and pleasure quarters, facing onto the Kamo River, the Sfera Building has been renovated with a respectful eye toward the city and its traditions. Reflecting the vibrancy of the culture while yet evincing its own unique style, our　Project is proud to take its place as one small new tributary in the grand 1200 year　currents of Kyoto history.