‘sugamo shinkin bank’ by emmanuelle moureaux architecture + design, tokyo, japan images courtesy of emmanuelle moureaux architecture + design / nacasa & partners inc.
japanese practice emmanuelle moureaux architecture + design has completed ‘sugamo shinkin bank’, a credit union located in shimura, japan. the design, an offset volume of rainbow-like layers, is the third branch designed by moureaux, with the first two located in tokiwadai and niiza.
overall view
stacked slabs in twelve saturated colors dominate the exterior facade and contrast the stark white panels that enclose the building. looking to create a refreshing atmosphere with a palpable sense of nature, the colors gently transition until they disappear into the sky. softly reflected onto the white surfaces, the hues create a warm and diffused exterior which provide a sense of ease and solitude. at night, the layers are faintly illuminated, varying in accordance to weather and the season.
(left) entrance (right) detail
side elevation
upon entering the building, three elliptical skylights bathe the interior in a soft light. penetrating through
each of the three levels, the clear, curving tubes carry light through them, introducing natural light into the
depths of the structure while integrating interior and exterior environments.
waiting area
on the main floor where the bank machines and teller windows are located, simple motifs and brightly colored
furniture act as a connection to the characteristics evident on the exterior of the structure.
bank machines and teller windows on the main floor
lobby and detail of light well
detail of glass tubes
light wells on the second floor
meeting rooms and offices surround the skylights on the second floor
offices
front facade at night
night view
floor plan / level 0
floor plan / level 1
floor plan / level 2
section
section
construction of slabs
structure
construction of the glass light wells
models
color swatches
