#Japan #Funabashi #Kawakamicho #Apartment Redevelopment #NEXT ARCHITECT

Kawakamicho Residential Complex Redevelopment Project

The Kawakamicho Residential Complex Redevelopment Project, initiated under the Japanese law aimed at facilitating the smooth reconstruction of apartments, officially broke ground on October 31, 2025. This ambitious endeavor is spearheaded by the Kawakamicho Second Residential Apartment Reconstruction Association, led by Chairman Akihiro Shindo, along with consultants from NEXT ARCHITECT & ASSOCIATES. Key participants in this project include prominent real estate firms: Nomura Real Estate Development Co., Ltd., Mitsui Fudosan Residential Co., Ltd., Asahi Kasei Homes Corporation, and Nippon Steel Kowa Real Estate Co., Ltd.

Project Background

Originally completed in 1969, the Kawakamicho Residential Complex comprises five stories with a total of 576 units. Over the years, the complex has faced numerous challenges, including aging infrastructure, outdated gas and water systems, electrical issues, and non-compliance with modern barrier-free standards. In light of these problems, the management association began discussions regarding redevelopment as early as 2007. The push for reconstruction gained momentum with the passage of a reconstruction promotion resolution in 2012, followed by the selection of project partners in 2014. In March 2023, a resolution for comprehensive redevelopment was established, leading to the formation of the reconstruction association in December of the same year, and culminating in the start of main construction work.

The reconstruction process will be conducted in two phases, with the first phase expected to conclude by 2028.

Notable Features of the Project

1. Largest Redevelopment in Chiba Prefecture: This project marks the largest redevelopment of its kind in Chiba Prefecture, utilizing the law for the smooth reconstruction of apartments. The scope will increase the number of housing units considerably from the original 576.

2. Leading Model for Long-Term Apartment Stock: The project has been recognized by Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism as a leading model under the 2022 annual housing stock longevity initiative. Specific aspects of this project include:
- Division and redefinition of the development site according to Article 86 of the Building Standards Act.
- Collaborative infrastructure planning with adjacent UR rental housing complexes to clarify management responsibilities.
- Joint efforts to develop new access roads in partnership with surrounding housing projects, and a focus on comprehensive design systems to create a cohesive urban landscape.

Overview of the Original Kawakamicho Residential Complex

• - Location: 4-6 Wakabacho 2-chome, Funabashi City, Chiba Prefecture
• - Site Area: 42,306 square meters (measured)
• - Total Floor Area: 30,241 square meters
• - Number of Units: 576 units
• - Structure and Scale: Reinforced concrete, five stories tall with 17 buildings
• - Completion Year: 1969

Note: The map above is processed using data from the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan.

Project Timeline

• - 2007: Discussions about redevelopment initiated by the Kawakamicho Residential Complex Management Association.
• - November 2014: Nomura Real Estate, Mitsui Fudosan, Asahi Kasei Real Estate Residence, and Nippon Steel Kowa Real Estate officially join as project partners.
• - March 2023: Resolution for comprehensive redevelopment is adopted.
• - December 2023: Approval announcement for the formation of the reconstruction association.
• - February 2025: Approval of rights conversion plan.
• - March 2025: Start of demolition work.
• - October 2025: Main construction begins.
• - 2028: Completion of the first phase of construction (planned).

Note: As of April 1, 2025, Asahi Kasei Real Estate Residence will merge into Asahi Kasei Homes, taking over the participant status in the project.