Residential building
TOPAZ Shinokachimachi,
designed by Yuko Nagayama & Associates
In the heart of Tokyo's bustling Taitō district, near the Shin Okachimachi subway station, the TOPAZ Shinokachimachi residential building was built as an example of a modern approach to urban architecture. Designed by the Yuko Nagayama & Associates studio, the 15-story studio apartment complex introduces new urban planning standards, combining functionality with aesthetics. The building was constructed in an area that was once full of traditional markets and artisan workshops, but is now gaining importance again. Despite the preservation of its historic character, the neighborhood is also characterized by dense development, with modern apartment buildings and office buildings alongside post-war, multi-story buildings.
The TOPAZ Shinokachimachi apartment complex is located in the heart of Tokyo's bustling Taitō district
Photo by Satoshi Takae © Yuko Nagayama & Associates
design philosophy and architectural innovation
The TOPAZ Shinokachimachi project was designed to make efficient use of limited urban space while enhancing the livability of its residents. The building's unusual fan-like form is a thoughtful response to the complex, irregular urban fabric of the Shin Okachimachi district. This spatial arrangement allows for the creation of open common spaces that provide a contrast to the compact development, providing residents with places to relax and interact.
TOPAZ Shinokachimachi apartment complex in Tokyo - floorplan.
© Yuko Nagayama & Associates
As a result of numerous design analyses, taking into account both urban regulations and the spatial context, a fan form emerged. Its curved shape breaks the regular grid of urban development, creating an open, shared space - a breath in the dense urban structure
- emphasize the architects.
TOPAZ Shinokachimachi apartment complex in Tokyo - the building's design refers to the aesthetics of Brutalism.
Photo by Satoshi Takae © Yuko Nagayama & Associates
Spatial efficiency and brutalist aesthetics
Each of the 48 apartments in the building is equipped with a balcony, which serves two functions: it provides private outdoor space and contributes to the formation of the building's mass. The L-shaped balconies, arranged along an arched wall, are based on a rigid frame structure, which ensures their high functionality and flexibility of use.
TOPAZ Shinokachimachi apartment complex in Tokyo - projection.
© Yuko Nagayama & Associates
The zigzag layout of the exterior walls improves the privacy of residents while optimizing escape routes, increasing the building's security. The building's design, reminiscent of the Brutalist aesthetic, combines concrete elements with glazing and balustrades made of mesh, in keeping with the style's characteristic austere look.
TOPAZ Shinokachimachi apartment complex in Tokyo - the building's unusual fan-like form is a response to the irregular urban fabric of the Shin Okachimachi district
Photo by Satoshi Takae © Yuko Nagayama & Associates
block inspired by the structure of a mineral
The building's name is not accidental - its solid refers to the structure of topaz, a mineral with a characteristic faceted shape. The fan-shaped layout of the block and the dynamic composition of the balconies are reminiscent of polished stone, in which each surface reflects light from a different angle. The facade, with its clear geometric division, reinforces this effect, giving the building a distinct rhythm. Thanks to this architectural concept, TOPAZ Shinokachimachi not only stands out in the dense urban fabric of Tokyo, but also subscribes to the idea of architecture responding to its surroundings through the play of light, textures and space.
TOPAZ Shinokachimachi apartment complex in Tokyo - interior view.
Photo by Satoshi Takae © Yuko Nagayama & Associates
sustainable solutions
and integration into the urban fabric
Sustainability is a key element of the office's design philosophy. The building's layout and carefully planned placement of balconies were designed to maximize access to natural light and ventilation, resulting in a reduced need for air-conditioning and heating systems. The use of vegetation and reflective materials contributes to reducing the urban heat island effect often found in densely developed areas.
The TOPAZ Shinokachimachi project was designed to make efficient use of limited urban space
Photo by Satoshi Takae © Yuko Nagayama & Associates
TOPAZ Shinokachimachi, designed by the Yuko Nagayama & Associates studio, is an example of architecture that brings innovative solutions to the urban landscape. The building not only responds to residents' needs for functionality and privacy, but also contributes to aesthetics and environmental quality. Against the backdrop of the increasing pace of urbanization, projects like TOPAZ Shinokachimachi are setting new standards, striving to create sustainable and comfortable urban living spaces.
Elaborated: Anastazja Dżupina
Illustrations provided courtesy of Yuko Nagayama & Associates.
