The Duplicated Edge: Redefining Office Space

Revolutionary Design by Tetsuya Matsumoto Transforms Limited Space into Functional Office

Tetsuya Matsumoto's design inspiration came from the need to create a playful and exact environment for modern sciences. The Duplicated Edge, designed for Matsuo Gakuin preparatory school, offers this playfulness using reflection on the ceiling and back wall. The height change of the tables, becoming a seating space itself, contributes to this lively atmosphere. The sharpness of the counter and the panel surrounding it gives an idea about the contemporary methods used by the school.

The Duplicated Edge is unique in its approach to space utilization. The design features a sharp triangular and multifunctional reception desk that divides the room into functional spaces without the use of walls. The ceiling and the back wall are covered in mirrors and reflective panels to visually extend the space, making the room appear larger than it actually is.

The design was realized using conventional materials used in Japanese interiors. The walls were made using LGS structures, covered in wood panels and finished in vinyl cloth. The back wall is covered in clear mirror, while the ceiling is covered in reflective aluminum panels for security purposes. The sharp counter divides the room into two spaces, intuitively guiding customers to the appropriate side of the counter.

The Duplicated Edge design faced the challenge of a narrow room with a low ceiling. The design research focused on how to create a comfortable atmosphere without dividing the space into separate functional rooms or creating a simple open-space that would result in a feeling of being crushed by the low ceiling. The solution was to cover the background wall and ceiling in mirrors and reflective panels, extending the view to wider dimensions.

The Duplicated Edge is a testament to Tetsuya Matsumoto's innovative approach to design. It not only solves the problem of limited space but also creates a functional and aesthetically pleasing office environment. The design's success is evident in its recognition by the prestigious A' Design Award, further cementing Tetsuya Matsumoto's place in the world of innovative design.