MUJI x UR housing complex renovation project for the new normal

in the 50s, japan saw a rapid economic growth, allowing it to erect condominium-type multi-dwelling units (MUDs) called danchi. at the time, these apartments were occupied by proud tenants, but today, many of them are empty and left to decline. in order to tackle this problem, MUJI has partnered with UR (urban renaissance agency) to redefine these spaces and ultimately, give them a second life.

images by MUJI

launched in 2012, the MUJI x UR housing complex renovation project is an attempt to realize an unprecedented way of living in rental housing. most of these housing complex are built under luxurious site conditions, where buildings are widely spaced, allowing for natural light and ventilation and lots of greenery, resulting in ideal living conditions. the team has recently developed 11 new plans for four housing complexes that also take into consideration our new normal.

these renovation projects give a new value to the forgotten spaces — reviewing old things and making good use of them is the same as valuing the present and connecting it to the future. thought as a bento box where you can put in whatever you like, these spaces have been thought to be flexible, able to freely change in accordance to living need. for example, by placing MUJI storage furniture in an empty space, you can freely change the floor plan according to the growth of your family and changes in your lifestyle. In addition, the size of the storage furniture and the dimensions of the interior such as the small ceiling, doors, kitchen, and closet are linked, so no matter how they are combined, the space will naturally be in harmony.

after a year of social distancing, many of us are rethinking our living ways, paying more attention to our homes. the different concepts created by MUJI take this into consideration, resulting in spaces that are flexible and that can have different functions. for example, a closet can feature a large table-top that doubles as a desk. MUJI x UR will start recruiting occupants by the end of january.

project info:

name: MUJI x UR housing complex renovation project