The architecture of existing: Tokyo’s ‘building with no purpose’ challenges the need for utility

In contrast, the upper floors open to bright, diffuse daylight streaming from a central skylight. The glass exterior walls offer no windows at upper levels, focusing light inward from above, which highlights wood panelling and concrete surfaces with a sense of calm refinement. The spatial progression from dense, grounded darkness below to light-filled openness above creates a powerful dialogue between materiality and nature.

Open to the public for a limited period, it operates more as a contemplative architectural statement than a conventional commercial or residential building.