Tokyu Plaza Ginza

Tokyu Plaza Ginza - architects Nikken Sekkei Ltd

Tokyu Plaza Ginza is a 50,000-m2 retail facility in Ginza, the high-end district of Tokyo. Created under the concept “Vessel of light”, the building is characterized by a dynamically faceted glass exterior with a cut glass motif inspired by the Japanese traditional craft of “Edo Kiriko”. This particular design creates an optical phenomenon whereby the transmission and reflection of the sunlight, gives the façade a different expression at different times of the day and with the changing of the weather. Because of the mirror-effect of the glass, the façade also reflects the urban scenery and the dynamic hustle and bustle of the city. At the same time, it reveals its inner activities to the city, creating a dialogue between the inside and the outside world.

In order to achieve the sleek appearance of the building, structural silicone glazing was adopted to eliminate external framing. Like the carved glass pattern seen on the surface of Edo Kiriko, the façade creates a large 3D diamond-shaped pattern, which is 6 stories high and 500 mm deep. This large scale pattern makes the building stand out from its surrounding context. The unitized glass assembly is comprised of both low iron glass and heat reflective coated glass that emphasize the three-dimensional profile of the building form. The low iron glass panel is treated with a 1 mm ceramic dot pattern of graduating density. At night, this plane is illuminated by light fixtures integrated into the interior aluminum mullions.

The building itself incorporates public spaces, which include the rooftop Kiriko Terrace and the high-ceiling Kiriko Lounge on the 6th floor, the design provides areas where visitors can freerly relax in style. The Kiriko Lounge is a public area situated at the middle level of the building that offers a broad view across the city. With its 27m-high atrium, and its vantage point above the busy intersection, the lounge opens up to the commercial activities of the city. In the high-density and limited spatial conditions of Ginza, such an open and elevated space offers an opportunity for people to gather and interact in an upscale environment. The continuity between the architecture and the urban context promotes the attractive spirit of this city.

Photo/ tekst Koji Fujii / Nacasa & Partners Inc. & @archello.com