Mitsui Woody Building
Project management / Design/ Construction
BUILDING RENEWAL
442㎡
A space that embodies new order and serenity, created through selective redesign
In the renovation of the common areas of a medium-sized office building built in 1990, we were tasked with designing and constructing the entrance, rooftop balcony, elevator lobbies, and other areas. Under the concept of “recompose,” we designed the spaces to introduce a new sense of order and serenity while carefully interpreting their charm and making use of as many beautiful existing elements as possible. We also paid great attention to material selection, lighting plan, and the environment, working to enhance the asset value by revitalizing the building’s appearance and functionality.
CONCEPT
Guided by the concept of “recompose,” we carefully interpreted the charm of the existing spaces, going beyond mere renovation to identify and preserve elements of true value. We designed the spaces to bring a new sense of order and serenity while making use of as many beautiful existing elements as possible. Embracing the richness and atmosphere of materials unique to a long-standing building, we sought to create spaces that subtly appeal to the sensibilities of visitors.
PLANNING
As the first step of the design process, we examined the spaces to carefully choose which elements to preserve and which to minimize. At the entrance, part of the ceiling is recessed to create a feeling of greater height. The large tiles, which are used on the exterior, are also used inside to create a sense of unity between inside and outside. The newly added rooftop balcony has been built as a safe and comfortable amenity, carefully meeting technical requirements, including handrail installation without damaging the waterproofing layer, and ensuring the building height complies with shadow regulations.
DESIGN
Centered on the ideas of “restructuring of order” and “unity among materials,” we carefully sorted and redesigned various existing elements. While eliminating wooden elements and chromatic colors, we incorporated predominantly achromatic materials, along with simple yet practical furniture. The configuration, in harmony with white-toned lighting, brings a sense of serenity and composure to the spaces. Moreover, we incorporated environmentally certified products and upcycled materials to create spaces that subtly convey the story aligned with the concept.
The exterior now has a leaner appearance through the addition of a horizontal band of achromatic spandrel panels beneath the existing curtain walls. The spandrel panels give the façade a sense of unity and rhythm, revitalizing the exterior with a refined look.
The exterior walls have been redesigned with muted grayscale tones to create harmony across the façade. The color change created a sense of unity among the various existing materials, giving the exterior a distinctive appearance imbued with tranquility and sophistication, while blending harmoniously with the surrounding environment.
The lighting, paired with the achromatic interior, naturally creates a sense of order and serenity. Indirect lighting is used extensively to prevent glare, resulting in a gentle, evenly lit space that supports calmness and focus.
The entrance lobby is decorated with graphic panels made from materials upcycled from waste fibers. Utilizing their unique textures and non-uniformity, the panels feature an abstract pattern that blends in with the tones of the space, subtly contributing to the storytelling of the space.
The elevator lobby wall design on the typical floors from the 2nd floor and above follows the style of the 1st floor while making use of the existing interior materials, maintaining a sense of unity. The floor features eco-friendly carpet tiles made from recycled nylon, reducing environmental impact.
The rooftop balcony serves as a new amenity that differentiates the property from nearby buildings. Its floor is finished with detachable wood deck panels, protecting the waterproofing layer while providing a comfortable walking surface. Despite numerous technical challenges, including safety and legal compliance and alignment with existing conditions, we created a practical and appealing space through meticulous coordination with relevant parties.
LAUNCH
We believe we successfully achieved both accuracy and client satisfaction throughout the project by carefully determining the direction of the design at each phase, even under limited conditions. In addition to the client’s satisfaction with the design intent and results, we hope that the project will enhance the property’s overall value through the improvements to both its appearance and usability.
PROJECT FLOW
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Clarification of requirements
In this project for a building constructed in 1990, our goal was to redesign the common areas, which featured a variety of materials and colors, drawing out their maximum potential while keeping the renovation minimal.
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Concept design
Centered on the concept of “recompose,” we envisioned composed, sophisticated spaces by thoughtfully interpreting the building’s history and the charm of its existing spaces.
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Basic plan
We carefully examined the spaces to identify which elements to retain and which to minimize. After establishing our approach for utilizing the existing elements, we developed an effective design within the limited scope of the renovation. By evaluating and selecting composition, materials, lines of movement, and other elements, we clarified the direction of the spatial plan in line with the concept.
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Implementation design
Achromatic materials and lighting were employed to create a composed and sophisticated composition with a sense of unity. Also, by incorporating both upcycled materials and existing materials, we brought the ideas of “restructuring of order” and “unity among materials” to life.
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Cost adjustment
We employed luxurious materials, such as tiles and metal elements, for the exterior and entrance, while keeping their use minimal to optimize costs. On the typical floors, we assessed the existing equipment and kept ones that could be integrated into the new layout to optimize costs.
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Building environment development
Since the project involved construction work in the common areas, we carefully planned temporary structures and minimized disruptions to the lines of movement. We provided work-related announcements as needed and responded flexibly during the construction period, carrying out the work smoothly while minimizing impact on building users.
PROJECT DATA
Project: Mitsui Woody Building Renovation Project
Business: BUILDING RENEWAL
Role: Project management / Design/ Construction
Completion Date: 2024.11
Size: 442㎡
Location: Koto-ku, Tokyo
Category: PR
CREDIT
- Planning
Frontier Consulting Co., Ltd.
- Project Management
Frontier Consulting Co., Ltd.
- Design
Frontier Consulting Co., Ltd.
- Construction
Frontier Consulting Co., Ltd.
- Photograph
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