Innovative Partnership: Educational Contest to Shape Future Housing Designs in Tokyo

Housing Planning Contest 2025: A Platform for Future Designers

On December 11, 2025, Hajime Construction Co., a leading company within the Iida Group Holdings, and Mode Gakuen, located in Shinjuku, Tokyo, held the final presentation and award ceremony for their joint academic-industry project, the Housing Planning Contest 2025. This initiative aimed to provide interior design students with a platform to unleash their creativity through a competitive format focused on real-world applications.

Overview of the Contest

The competition targeted students from the interior design department at Mode Gakuen, challenging them to create innovative designs for ready-built homes offered by Hajime Construction. The theme of the contest was "Students' Creativity in Ready-Built Homes," where participants were encouraged to propose original design plans that embody flexibility and imaginative thinking.

Notably, this project goes beyond mere presentations. The winning designs possess the potential to be constructed as actual housing projects, marking an exciting intersection of education and industry. The evaluation process involved professionals from Hajime Construction and educators from Mode Gakuen, who identified the top entries as well as a recipient of the "Business Innovation Award," recognizing the feasibility of implementing a student's housing plan.

Building the Next Generation in Housing

Through this collaboration, Hajime Construction and Mode Gakuen aspire to nurture the next generation of talent in the housing and construction field. The initiative not only allows students to express their creativity but also equips them with practical skills relevant to the industry's demands.

Highlights of the Final Event

During the final event, students presented their unique visions for future housing. Two teams stood out for their exceptional proposals:

- Best Award Winner: Ito Team

The team centered their design around the concept of "growth rings," which symbolizes how the house evolves alongside the family. Their aim was to create a space that feels warm and inviting, making it a place to always return to, no matter how much time passes. Despite encountering differing opinions during the planning stages, the team refined their concept through constructive discussions, ultimately gaining valuable experience in teamwork and project management.

- Business Innovation Award Winner: Mikami Team

Focusing on a residential concept dubbed "A Home That Cultivates Sensitivity Together," this team designed a versatile living space that facilitates parental supervision while considering natural lighting. They aim to create an environment where residents can express their individuality, seamlessly incorporating elements like garages, balconies, and open living areas. The project presented its challenges, particularly in maintaining creative freedom, but the team is eager to see their ideas come to life through actual construction.

Contest Timeline and Structure

- Theme: Students' Creativity in Ready-Built Homes
- Participants: 29 students from Mode Gakuen's interior design department, organized into 6 teams.
- Schedule:

- Kickoff: September 10, 2025
- Field Research: October 16, 2025
- Mid-Presentation: November 13, 2025
- Final Presentation and Award Ceremony: December 11, 2025

- Instructors: Shinji Ono, educator at Mode Gakuen's Interior Design department.

About Mode Gakuen

Located just two minutes from Shinjuku Station’s west exit, Mode Gakuen is a specialized school that nurtures individual talents in various fields, including fashion, design, and the beauty industry. Their industry-connected curriculum has maintained a 100% job placement rate for 18 consecutive years, a testament to their commitment to student success.
More information can be found on their official website.

About Hajime Construction

As a flagship company of Iida Group Holdings, Hajime Construction excels in the supply of ready-built houses, consistently leading the market in volume. Their portfolio spans various housing projects, including custom builds and leaseback initiatives. Since the company supplies more than 9,000 newly built homes annually, they are committed to enhancing residential solutions and advancing community living. For additional details, visit their official website.