Designer Insights: The Future of Offices
Vol.3: Architects Thriving in Tokyo and Shanghai
Why a Showa-Era House Became Their Office
Shinya Kojima and Ayaka Kojima, who lead "kooo architects", operate offices in both Tokyo and Shanghai, and their work extends globally, encompassing hotels, offices, and renovations. Surprisingly, when I visited their Tokyo office, I found it was located in a residential house in the neighbourhood of Jiyugaoka, Tokyo.
Report by Miki Homma, Lifestyle Journalist
kooo architects have repurposed a traditional Showa-era house as their office, giving it a new lease of life through renovation. Passing through the garden and entering through the noren-draped door, visitors are welcomed into a room with tatami mats. This nostalgic Japanese home has greeted many clients over time. The office and communication space has been named 'Ichijō-Toma,' serving as an inspirational space for their own renovation brand.
Shinya and Ayaka Kojima met during their time at Kengo Kuma's office. After working at such a large and globally recognised firm, they wanted their own office to have spaces with a sense of openness, which ultimately led to the creation of the tatami room.
With the ability to work remotely from anywhere on tasks that require a computer, what truly matters in the office is the communication space," says Kojima. "It's important for the team to be exposed to different stimuli even while working in the office." For this reason, the tatami room is occasionally used as a gallery or event space. About once every two months, a craftsman is invited to give a demonstration. Tea gatherings are also held here.
The tatami-covered floor and the Juraku wall have been expertly crafted by skilled artisans, and these elements are used to convey the texture and atmosphere of the materials directly to clients. The photo shows gallery Ichijō-Toma being used as a gallery space during a tea gathering hosted by ceramic artist Shota Yamada.