Mount Fuji Inspires Award-Winning Office Design

Akihiro Ichinose's Fuji Sosai Office: A Blend of Art, Architecture and Employee Well-being

Mount Fuji, Japan's highest mountain, stands as a symbol of unity and success. This symbolism is beautifully integrated into the office design, with the company's name written in various sizes and fonts to represent the diversity of the employees. The message is clear: despite differences, shared goals and unity can lead to enormous success.

The office space is designed to provide a respite for employees who work in an environment that requires utmost care and consideration. To counter the tension that fills the funeral homes, the office is designed to resemble a cafe, creating a relaxed and fun atmosphere. This unique approach to office design is a testament to Akihiro Ichinose's innovative thinking.

The interior's highlight is the company's logo and messages embossed on the wall, created using the same monotone plaster. The design emphasizes Mount Fuji's silhouette, with a circular mirror depicting the sun and small Fuji Sosai words below representing clouds. This artistic representation of the mountain is a constant reminder of the company's values and goals.

The office design also addresses the funeral industry's challenge of a shortage of human resources. By creating a workplace that promotes fun and relaxation, the company hopes to attract top-class personnel. The interior includes original graphics, tables for table tennis games, and a bar counter to encourage efficient communication among employees.

The Fuji Sosai office design project was completed in December 2018 in Okinawa, Japan. The design's unique properties and the thought process behind it earned it the Silver A' Design Award, which is given to designs that showcase outstanding expertise, innovation, and artistic skill. This award-winning design is a testament to Akihiro Ichinose's ability to blend art, architecture, and employee well-being.