REVZO Toranomon by Norihisa Kawashima and Chuo-Nittochi Co., Ltd
The prototype of REVZO, a new mid-scale rental office series by a Japanese real estate company, has been completed in Toranomon, Tokyo in June 2020. This office strives to provide a delightful environment where one can connect with the ever-changing "nature" around them, by improving the physical and mental well-being of the occupants, and fostering a creative environment.
A double-side core configured plan allows for two wide openings, with the street-facing side allowing natural light to penetrate fully into the 17-meter deep tenant workspace. Each floor is equipped with operable windows to allow natural ventilation. A two-meter wide balcony with a planting strip is located along the street-facing side. The planting strips will be planted with cherry blossoms, hydrangeas, and various color-changing seasonal plants, along with edible plants such as blueberries, lemons, and herbs, creating a people-centric space where tenants can enjoy the seasonal changes and also be involved by harvesting them. A stainless steel mesh along the side of the balcony provides protection for residents and objects from falling and a foothold for plants to grow. An outdoor escape staircase is located at the end of a balcony, which can be used as a de-facto extension of the balcony. Air conditioners are located on one side of the building, blowing horizontally into space which allows for the elimination of ductwork from the ceiling and therefore creating a high ceiling space while keeping the floor to floor height low. Finishes are semi-skeletonized to minimize the amount of waste generated from the construction, which also allows for immediate occupancy and less impact on the global environment.
Spaces under the eaves in the front entrance are populated with a variety of wild vegetation such as red pine and agave, arranged in a manner where office workers and people walking by can enjoy the seasonal changes. The entrance vegetation is brought into the interior lobby space, configured alongside earthen walls, mirrors, and display screens showing images of nature. The displays also show the workshops of the furniture in the space. Stairwells connected to the lobby are naturally lit and well ventilated, accompanied by speakers and an art wall on each floor, making it a space where one will want to use the staircase instead of the elevators. On the top floor, there is a communal lounge with a high ceiling, designed with natural materials of earth, wood, and vegetation. Furniture and accessories are labeled with their origins, creating an environment where one can see and feel the craft placed into the furniture.
