Project name: Nomura Real Estate Group headquarters
Project type: Office
Location: Tokyo, Japan
Architect: Tetsuo Kobori Architects
The Nomura Real Estate Group headquarters in Tokyo by Tetsuo Kobori Architects is the December Monthly Winner of the Shaping Surfaces competition by Cleaf.
The open-plan office space uses the flexible and adaptable “UZU” furniture system — “vortex” in Japanese — to gently divide the space in a vortex-like pattern, encouraging interaction and connections among employees. The system was developed to create a new type of office where employees naturally gather and communication is promoted. This modular system uses standardised components to allow layouts to be customised freely according to department, purpose and work style. Elements such as shelves, sofas, lockers, planters, desks, wardrobes and whiteboards can be reconfigured based on use to place necessary functions where needed and create optimal workspaces tailored to each task’s efficiency. The unified structural system allows for sustainable, long-term use, as the furniture can be reconfigured to adapt to changing needs.
The contemporary interpretation of the oak essence of Quercia UB01 was chosen for all elements, in combination with Ovatta UA94.