Ajinomoto Taipei: A Blend of Wabi-Sabi and Modern Workspaces

Century-Old Office Transformed with Japanese Aesthetics

At the heart of Taipei's business district, the Ajinomoto Headquarters stands as a beacon of cultural and architectural fusion. Hank Lin's design draws from the Japanese Wabi-Sabi philosophy, celebrating the beauty of imperfection and the ephemeral nature of life. This concept breathes new life into the century-old building, transforming it into a grand, elegant space that pays homage to Ajinomoto's rich history and Japanese roots.

The office's unique loft space, boasting an eight-meter ceiling, is a rare find in the Zhongshan North Road business district. Lin's design maximizes this vertical expanse, introducing a theater catwalk concept that not only enhances the grandeur of the office but also cleverly houses functional systems for air conditioning, ventilation, and lighting. This innovative approach ensures a comfortable environment for employees while facilitating easy maintenance.

With a total area of 377m2, the office is meticulously planned to support a Free Address system. The symmetrical hexagonal OA arrangement allows for flexible furniture configurations, adapting to the evolving needs of remote work and video conferencing. This design choice is a direct response to the modern workforce's demand for versatility and the need for safety measures in light of the global pandemic.

Lin's team, including Jerry Lin and Mark Tan, faced the challenge of executing the renovation in two phases to mitigate the high rental costs in the urban setting. The result is a multipurpose space that not only meets diverse working requirements but also provides soundproof phone booths for private conversations and noise reduction, addressing the practical needs of a bustling corporate environment.

The redesign of the Ajinomoto Taipei Headquarters is not just an aesthetic upgrade; it is a reflection of the company's commitment to sustainability, employee well-being, and its mission to enhance the culinary experience globally. This dedication to quality and flavor is now mirrored in the very walls of their office space, creating an environment that resonates with Ajinomoto's core values.

Recognition of Hank Lin's work came with the prestigious Bronze A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2024. This accolade celebrates the design's creativity, resourcefulness, and its contribution to enhancing the quality of life, further cementing the project's status as a benchmark in office design innovation.