Global Hub SquareOffices Inspired by Japanese Mythology
The island where this building is located is said to be the first island created by a deity in Japanese mythology. The design labo imagined the temple as it might have existed there and the resulting design is a series of graceful arches, with a large staircase in the middle that, metaphorically, leads to heaven. The goal was to create an environment where people can feel the blessings of nature and work safely in cooperation with the residents.
The work style has changed dramatically in Japan after the Corona pandemic. The design labo client decided to move their Tokyo office to a remote island. They chose a site in the middle of the forest, where no offices or traffic jams are around. Instead, fresh air, sea breeze, and nature surround the location. The client wanted a beautiful view of the landscape, large windows to let in plenty of sunlight and wind, and a cafeteria where both employees and residents of the island could enjoy healthy meals made with local food.
The Global Hub Square is situated on a 2980 square meter lot, with a building area of 1415 square meters. The total floor area is 2257 square meters, divided into 844 square meters for the office building and 719 square meters for the food and beverage building. The central building covers 694 square meters.
The project was completed in April 2022 on Awaji Island, Japan. The design team was asked to redesign their client's offices that were being moved from Tokyo to the remote island. Drawing inspiration from the island's mythical origins, the team created a design with graceful arches and a large staircase that symbolizes a path to heaven. The aim was to create an environment that allows people to experience the blessings of nature while working in harmony with the island's residents.
All images: Photographer Ikumori Yamamoto, 2022.
This Design was awarded Bronze in A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2022. The Bronze A' Design Award is bestowed upon outstanding and creatively ingenious designs that authenticate experience and resourcefulness. Esteemed for incorporating best practices in art, science, design, and technology, they exhibit strong technical and creative skills and contribute to quality of life improvements, making the world a better place.
Project Details and Credits
Project Designers: Satoshi Itasaka
Image Credits: All images: Photographer Ikumori Yamamoto, 2022.
Project Team Members: Satoshi Itasaka
Project Name: Global Hub Square
Project Client: Satoshi Itasaka