Keiun Building: A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation

Kensuke Aisaka's Multi-Tenant Building Marries Japanese Aesthetics with Modern Design

Located between Shibuya and Harajuku, the Keiun Building is a testament to Kensuke Aisaka's innovative approach to design and architecture. This four-storied multi-tenant building, awarded the Silver A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2017, showcases a unique blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern design principles.

The Keiun Building stands out for its distinctive use of color. Kensuke Aisaka chose five traditional Japanese colors - Akane-iro (madder), Ebicha-iro (reddish brown), Hiwada-iro (dusky red), Bengara-iro (Bengal red), and Kuri-iro (sorrel) - to imbue the structure with a sense of Japaneseness. These colors were then rearranged to create an eye-catching effect and preserve the landscape's aesthetic harmony.

One of the building's unique features is its strategic location. Situated on a narrow site, the Keiun Building faces the Fire Street on the west and the Yamanote line and Miyashita Park on the east. This positioning required special attention to sunlight insolation and eyesight on the east and west elevations, both of which serve as the building's front facades.

To address the sunlight insolation issue, Aisaka fitted the ALC outer wall with an aluminum mesh, similar to rattan blinds, to block sunlight effectively. These 2mm thick aluminum boards are designed to expand in summer and contract in winter, ensuring optimal temperature regulation. The boards are also detachable, allowing for easy manual maintenance.

The Keiun Building's technical specifications further highlight its innovative design. With a total floor area of 429.75 square meters spread across four floors and a penthouse, the building maximizes its 131.81 square meter site. Each floor measures 106.63 square meters, providing ample space for tenants.

The Keiun Building's design process and realization are a testament to Kensuke Aisaka's commitment to innovative architecture. From its unique color scheme to its strategic use of space and materials, the building embodies a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. It's no surprise that this architectural marvel was awarded the Silver A' Design Award, a testament to Aisaka's outstanding expertise and innovation.

In conclusion, the Keiun Building is more than just a multi-tenant structure. It's a symbol of Japan's rich cultural heritage and its forward-thinking approach to design and architecture. Kensuke Aisaka's innovative design approach, as exemplified in the Keiun Building, continues to inspire and amaze, setting new standards in architectural design.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Kensuke Aisaka
Image Credits: Image #1~#5: Photographer Shigeo Ogawa
Project Team Members: Kensuke Aisaka
Project Name: Keiun Building
Project Client: Kensuke Aisaka


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