naruse inokuma architects creates open work space with KOIL in japan

naruse inokuma architects creates open work space with KOIL in japan
photo by masao nishikawa
all images courtesy of naruse inokuma architects

occupying an upper floor of a tower in the wakashiba district of kashiwa, japan, ‘KOIL’ (kashiwa-no-ha open innovation lab) provides a place for companies and individuals to work toward their creative ambitions. designed by naruse inokuma architects, the project is intended to support entrepreneurial start-ups, promote enterprise developments, and stimulate the country’s economic activities. the non-traditional office environment fuses various programmatic elements, including open work areas, shops for manufacturing, conference rooms, cafés, and relaxation spaces.

the central communal zone provides an array of different work areas
photo by masao nishikawa

by hosting a variety of work spaces and functions, KOIL allows its users to choose which type of environment is appropriate for each individual. the complex acts as a miniature city, where various activities and events occur simultaneously. this condition necessitates shared areas prompts communication among constituents, thus promoting an open flow of ideas. the flexibility of the arrangement is in clear contrast to typical office design of the 20th century, which is characterized as uniform and top-down.

changes in ceiling height and mobile furniture serve to loosely distinguish spaces among the open area
photo by masao nishikawa

to enhance an unbiased and open atmosphere, and avoid visual associations, many walls are left unfinished, with ductwork often exposed along the ceilings. simple materials are otherwise used, including cement and plaster boards, wood flooring, and plastic or rubber tiles.

the mix of activities intersect at a central public zone, featuring shifting ceiling heights and diverse color temperatures of lights. mobile furniture allows work areas to reconfigure based on the users’ needs.

walls and ceilings are unfinished or otherwise panelized with simple materials
photo by masao nishikawa

in the entry and hallways, ductwork and structure is exposed
photo by masao nishikawa

a presentation space is partitioned by sheer drapes
photo by masao nishikawa

a café allows users to relax and recharge
photo by masao nishikawa

the complex features printers, laser cutters, 3D printers, and other tools
photo by masao nishikawa

one of the meeting rooms contains plywood tables and unfinished walls
photo by masao nishikawa

at the corner of the complex, the café opens onto a terrace overlooking the city
photo by masao nishikawa

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project info:

location: kashiwa-shi, chiba-ken, japan
date of completion: 03/2014
principal use: innovation office
structure: SRC (steel encased reinforced concrete)
total floor area: 2576 sqm (6f)
architecture: naruse inokuma architects, co., ltd.
project planning & production: mitsui fudosan co.,ltd; loftwork inc.
facilities: kankyo engineering inc.
lighting: izumi okayasu lighting design office
curtains: yoko ando design
furniture: battanation co.,ltd.; naruse inokuma architects,co.,ltd.
signage: art direction lemonlife & co.
logo design: motomoto inc.
construction: nomura co.,ltd.
photography: masao nishikawa