The SYMBOLPLUS Office renovation is a captivating tale of architectural transformation, where a timber building in Tokyo is reborn with a unique vision. But here's where it gets intriguing: the client, architect Akio Hayashi, had a bold request—a challenge to create a space free from synthetic materials, embracing the natural and the existing.
The design team, led by Satoshi Nobekawa and Sho Watanabe, took this brief to heart, crafting a 76-square-meter office that transcends the ordinary. Completed in 2024, this project is not about flashy aesthetics but rather a profound connection between architecture, materials, and the passage of time. And this is the part most people miss—it's a celebration of continuity and a departure from the conventional.
The construction, lighting, and finishing touches were meticulously executed by SET UP CO., LTD., Filaments Inc., and a host of specialized suppliers. From the plasterer to the wallpaper, glass, stone, wood, and carpet providers, each element contributes to the office's distinctive character.
SYMBOLPLUS Office is a testament to the power of design that respects the past while creating something genuinely innovative. It invites us to question: Can architecture truly thrive without the use of synthetic materials? What other possibilities exist when we embrace the natural and the old? Share your thoughts below, and let's explore the boundaries of architectural creativity together.
