The PolyCuboid: A Masterpiece of Modern Architecture

Exploring Tetsuya Matsumoto's Award-Winning Office Building Design

Located in Himeji City, Japan, the PolyCuboid is the new headquarter office for TIA.co.ltd, a company that provides insurance services. The building is a composition of three imperfect cuboid shapes that interlace to build up the different spaces. The composition further results in an atrium linking the different functions on the different levels and providing the interior with a large amount of natural light. The metallic structure vanishes from the space syntax turning the building into a sculptural object.

The design process was driven by the client's initials, TIA, which led to the creation of three distinct volumes. These volumes were then developed into abstract cuboid forms, reflecting a more dynamic and yet relaxing approach to work that the client wanted to implement in their headquarter. The result is a unique, minimalist design that stands out in the realm of office architecture.

The PolyCuboid stands on a metallic frame structure for its four levels. The complex geometry of the distinct cuboids and their superposition creating half levels accentuates the complexity of the metallic frame that is concealed inside the invisible parts of the volumes. The exterior wall cladding is a polished composite cement panel called Miraia and produced by Nichiha. The interior finishes vary from wallpaper, tiles, black oxide steel, stainless steel, and many other materials.

Despite the challenges posed by a water service pipe crossing the site, limiting the construction to half the area, and calling for cantilevered spaces in the upper levels to compensate, Matsumoto successfully managed to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing design. The interlaced cuboids result in peculiar spaces and connections that needed to be carefully managed. Privacy and interaction together with the daylighting had also major importance in the design process.

The PolyCuboid is not just an office building, but an icon representing the company. The volumetric design is inspired by TIA’s Logo turning the building itself into an icon representing the company. This innovative approach to design has earned Matsumoto the Golden A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2020. This award is granted to marvelous, outstanding, and trendsetting creations that reflect the designer's prodigy and wisdom. They are venerated products and bright ideas that advance art, science, design, and technology, embodying extraordinary excellence and significantly impacting the world with their desirable characteristics.

In conclusion, the PolyCuboid is a testament to Tetsuya Matsumoto's innovative approach to architecture and design. It is a shining example of how design can transform a simple office building into a work of art, a symbol of a company's identity, and a space that fosters creativity and collaboration. This project serves as an inspiration for architects and designers around the world, proving that with creativity and innovation, even the most challenging sites can be transformed into architectural masterpieces.