Construction Updates
Follow the progress of the store as it comes to life.
To see the start of the project, go to the last page.
25–26 November 2025
Fire hydrant and water works
The fire hydrant and water connections are in place. The contractors even worked in the rain on the first day, digging up part of the road in front of the store to connect the pipes.
21 November 2025
Foundation is complete
The concrete foundation is officially complete! The contractors also carefully levelled the surrounding area, leaving the site neat and prepared for the next stage of construction.
18 November 2025
Foundation progress
The main foundation concrete is in place, with wooden supports still around the edges. Next, work will continue on the wheelchair-accessible slope at the front of the store and the side entrance step.
4–7 November 2025
Preparing the foundation
A beautiful autumn day and an important step forward: preparing the foundation and installing rebar. Now we’re ready for the concrete to be poured. Let’s hope for good weather! ▶️ Watch a short video
29 October 2025
Ground-breaking ceremony
Before construction begins, we held a traditional Japanese Jichinsai, a Shinto ceremony to bless the land and pray for safety during construction.
The ceremony was held on a Taian (大安), traditionally considered an auspicious day for new beginnings. It was a memorable start to what will be an exciting journey ahead.
22 October 2025
On site landscaping meeting
I met on site with the landscaper and architect to review the garden plans. Although it rained throughout the meeting, it was helpful to see where water naturally pools. They discussed practical ways to manage the rainwater and keep the garden well-drained.
We also met with the plumbers that day to discuss water connections for the shop.
22 October 2025
Ground investigation
A ground investigation was conducted today to determine the firmness of the soil. The results showed that support piles will be needed beneath the foundation to ensure stability. The engineer worked hard in the rain to complete the testing, which was impressive to see.
17 October 2025
Marking the site
I often meet the architect on site to work out details of the project. Today, we revisited the footprint of the future shop and made some adjustments. It was helpful to get a clear sense of the space.
We also took the opportunity to visit neighbours and surrounding shops to let them know construction will be starting soon. It was nice to connect with the community.