AKQA Tokyo Office by Torafu Architects | Yellowtrace

AKQA Tokyo Office by Torafu Architects | Yellowtrace

AKQA Tokyo Office by Torafu Architects | Yellowtrace

AKQA Tokyo Office by Torafu Architects | Yellowtrace

 

Japanese studio Torafu Architects have transformed this basement level floor into a pretty sweet workplace for the global advertising agency AKQA in Tokyo. Although largely underground, the raw industrial concrete shell with 6m high ceiling is centred around the inner courtyard with large trees, making the most of limited natural light.

Working with the existing two levels of the site, the architects inserted a series of timber platforms which act both as a linking strategy and a way of subdividing the vast space. In some instances timber platforms act as steps which unify the two levels. Other times these platforms create different zones with their own distinct functions.

Visitors are greeted with “water balloon” lights designed by Torafu, which can be found suspended throughout the reception area which overlooks the entire office space. One thing though – I am personally ready to never see another exposed light bulb for as long as I live. (These also look a bit like used condoms, but that’s another story). In this case, however, I can almost forgive the designers for this move as the bulbs twinkle and create a lovely effect across the space.

 

AKQA Tokyo Office by Torafu Architects | Yellowtrace

AKQA Tokyo Office by Torafu Architects | Yellowtrace

AKQA Tokyo Office by Torafu Architects | Yellowtrace

AKQA Tokyo Office by Torafu Architects | Yellowtrace

 

Three thing for me that make this interior, and give it an edge that sets it apart from the sea of other “creative office spaces in a warehouse”. Orange coloured glass, which adds a lovely element of surprise and a hint of warmth in what’s otherwise a pretty tough and robust looking interior. Next, the vibrant blue carpet inside the meeting rooms, which adds just enough zing & colour that animates the space similarly to the glass. And finally, the scattered trees which add life and softness to the space. I also love the super cool way these trees are housed in planters made of mortar cast in sandbags. Big tick. Actually, make that four things, cause I forgot to mention the monster cool basketball hoop mounted on a rolling tower scaffold in the social area. How awesome, yet potentially extremely annoying if a basketball was to bounce off your head or your laptop screen if someone decided a play a game while you’re on deadline. Yeah, that bit wouldn’t be so awesome.

Still. I’m a fan.

 

Related Post:
Trees In Interiors.
Trees In Interiors, Revisited.

 


[Photography by Ano Taichi.]

 



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With a disarming blend of authority and approachability, Dana is a former refugee-turned-global design visionary. Through her multi-faceted work as a creative director, keynote speaker, editor, curator, interior designer and digital publisher, Dana empowers others to appreciate and engage with design in transformative ways, making the sometimes intimidating world of design accessible to everyone, regardless of their familiarity with the subject. Dana's been catapulted to the status of a stalwart global influencer, with recognition from industry heavyweights such as AD Germany, Vogue Living, Elle Décor Italia and Danish RUM Interiør Design, who have named as one of the Top True Global Influencers of the Design World and counted her among the most visionary female creatives on the planet. Her TEDx talk—"Design Can Change the Way You See the World"— will challenge and transform your understanding of design's omnipresent and profound influence. Through her vast experience in interiors, architecture and design, Dana challenges the prevailing rapid image culture, highlighting the importance of originality, sustainability, connecting with your values and learning to "see" design beyond the aesthetic.

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