#Japan #Tokyo #Marui Group #Creative Space #nendo

Marui Group and nendo Unveil Collaborative Communication Spaces

In a significant move towards fostering creativity and collaboration, Marui Group has unveiled a pair of innovative spaces during its recent headquarters redevelopment. Developed under the supervision of renowned design office nendo, led by designer Oki Sato, these areas named "Collaboration Hall" on the 3rd floor and "Collaboration Lounge" on the 9th floor aim to create an open and dynamic environment conducive to dialogue and co-creation.

The Vision Behind Collaborative Spaces

The aim of the collaborative communication spaces is to manifest Marui Group's goal of promoting a society that nurtures the flow of working individuals. Designed to facilitate a variety of events and dialogues, as well as serving as comfortable workspaces, these areas encourage employees to engage in meaningful interactions, paving the way for what the company describes as the creation of a flow state among its workforce.

As individuals enter these collaborative spaces, they are expected to transition into a flow state, enhancing cooperation and driving both impact and profitability in their work.

Design Insights from nendo

Renowned designer Oki Sato of nendo articulated the need for a space that embodies diverse interactions and values that lead to novel business ideas. This vision materialized in the form of two distinct workspaces. The 3rd floor "Collaboration Hall" is designed to accommodate various session sizes, providing an open venue for events and seminars. Interestingly, instead of simply creating a large room, the design emphasizes smaller interconnected spaces—reminiscent of a large, billowy cloud—allowing for both intimacy and engagement.

The hall can host up to 280 participants and doubles as a lounge area when not in use for events. By adopting a horizontal layout rather than the conventional vertical arrangement, the design enhances the connection between speakers and participants. The seating is arranged in a conical shape, allowing attendees to maintain eye contact and a sense of unity throughout the space. Additionally, advanced acoustic systems have been installed, featuring a 'voice lift' technology that ensures clarity of speech across the room. With one-touch controls for lighting, sound, and camera systems via a tablet interface, the space merges functionality with user-friendliness.

Collaborating for Greater Impact

The 9th floor "Collaboration Lounge" follows suit with similar design themes, creating an environment that naturally fosters a sense of belonging while accommodating up to 200 employees. This floor includes four meeting rooms, a café, and a display area, alongside three flexible zones for events of varying sizes. Books curated from employee interviews will be available for lending, further encouraging a culture of shared knowledge and creativity.

An underutilized break area has been transformed into a "Engawa Green," inspired by traditional Japanese verandas. This revitalized space features a relaxing environment with plants and materials designed to draw parallels to a serene garden. The seating arrangement promotes informal communication among employees, reinforcing a culture of openness and interaction.

Both floors are equipped with adaptable lighting and scents that shift throughout the day and seasons, maintaining a dynamic atmosphere that counters uniformity.

Future Utilization Plans

Marui Group has expressed its intent to utilize these collaborative spaces not only as employee work areas but also to host various events such as shareholder meetings and workshops. This initiative represents a critical step towards expanding the company's operational scope while reinforcing its future direction.

About nendo

Nendo, a prestigious design firm, is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. Led by chief designer Oki Sato, the firm is recognized for its innovative approach to design across various sectors.

About Marui Group

Founded in Tokyo, Marui Group has continuously evolved its business model, focusing on fostering community and collaboration through design and innovative spaces. With subsidiaries including Epos Card and Marui, the company is committed to a forward-thinking approach in its operations.

For more information about Marui Group:
Marui Group Official Website

For more information about nendo:
nendo Official Website