ROOVICE exposes wooden structure within renovated apartment in tokyo's minato ward

ROOVICE Transforms a 1960s Wooden Apartment Building

ROOVICE has undertaken the transformation of a 1960s wooden apartment building in Tokyo‘s Minato Ward, converting the structure into a cohesive commercial rental property. Originally divided into six separate units, the renovation involved a complete overhaul, demolishing interior walls to create an open, unified space while retaining key elements of the original building.

The ground floor, which previously had poor lighting, was reconfigured to enhance natural light. The original windows were preserved where possible, and the ceiling height was increased by removing ceiling boards. Red pine wood flooring was installed, and wet areas were defined with round-shaped PVC tiles and curved curtains, adding a subtle visual distinction. A new wooden staircase was built to connect the ground and second floors. The entrance, which had been set back and dark, was relocated closer to the approach, improving accessibility. This area now features a lowered floor with a smooth mortar finish and expanded space for bicycles and skateboards, designed to accommodate an active urban lifestyle.

all images by by Akira Nakamura

renovation by ROOVICE Blends Heritage and Modernity

On the second floor, ceiling coverage was removed to reveal the original roof boards. External insulation was applied to preserve the exposed wood, contributing to a warm, rustic aesthetic. Several original columns were removed to open the space, with reinforcement beams ensuring structural stability. The removed columns were repurposed as supports for a kitchen counter, integrating old and new elements into the design. Lauan plywood was used on the walls and floors, creating a patchwork effect with the varied sizes of the original windows. Custom-made lighting and switches crafted from lauan further enhanced the cohesive design. The building’s external staircase was retained, allowing the possibility of separate access to the upper and lower floors, making the space adaptable to various commercial uses.

This renovation in Shirokanedai demonstrates how outdated architecture can be thoughtfully modernized while maintaining a connection to its historical roots. The architects merge old and new, resulting in a functional and distinctive rental property that respects the building’s past while adapting to contemporary needs.

ROOVICE transforms a 1960s wooden apartment building in Minato Ward into a commercial rental space

interior walls were demolished to create an open, unified layout while retaining key original features

red pine wood flooring enhances the warm atmosphere of the newly reconfigured ground floor

ceiling coverage was removed on the second floor, revealing original roof boards and adding rustic charm

a new wooden staircase connects the ground and second floors, improving accessibility

ground-floor lighting was improved by preserving original windows and raising the ceiling height

external insulation was applied to preserve the exposed wood, creating a warm aesthetic

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wet areas are defined using round-shaped PVC tiles and curved curtains for a subtle visual distinction

when opened, curtains sliding on a curved path reveal the wet areas of the apartment

lauan plywood was used on walls and floors, creating a patchwork effect with varied window sizes

custom-made lighting and switches, crafted from lauan, enhance the cohesive design

project info:

name: Commercial Space in Minato

architect: ROOVICE | @roovice 

lead architect: Koji Kato | Roovice

gross built area: 148 sqm

location: Minato, Tokyo, Japan

photography: Akira Nakamura | @nakamamej

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom