#Japan #Tokyo #Good Design #Takamatsu #Akasaka Residence

Takamatsu Construction’s Triumph at the 2025 Good Design Award

Takamatsu Construction Co., Ltd., based in Osaka, has achieved a significant milestone with the recognition of its rental property, THE AKASAKA RESIDENCE S.O.A., at the 2025 Good Design Award. This prestigious award, facilitated by the Japan Design Promotion Organization, underscores the project’s innovative design and architectural significance.

The award was shared with Tsuru Naka Co., Ltd., a long-established kaiseki restaurant in Akasaka, marking a collaboration that fuses traditional Japanese culture with modern architectural solutions. The project is particularly noteworthy in the category of architecture, specifically for medium to large-scale residential complexes.

Architectural Review

The jury praised the design for its harmonious correspondence with the structural framework, emphasizing how the living space is ingeniously integrated within the framework of a braced structure. This spatial arrangement not only fosters comfort but also creates a buffer zone with the surrounding urban environment. The building's elegant facade is characterized by a unique interplay of walls and glass, visibly creating a light and flowing architecture, where elements appear to elegantly extend from the foundation.

Design Elements and Philosophy

THE AKASAKA RESIDENCE S.O.A. has been thoughtfully designed to reflect the architectural language and cultural memory of the historic Akasaka geisha district, featuring RC wall surfaces, a lattice design, and low, deep overhangs. The building’s external aesthetics serve to reconnect the area’s memory while adapting its scale to modern residential needs.

The project embodies a restructured philosophy of space, incorporating the unique atmospheric qualities of traditional kaiseki architecture—such as the invitation to enter, the depth of alleys, and an air of serenity. The aim is to create a rich urban living experience that feels both intimate and expansive, embedding the essence of hospitality within common areas that encourage community interaction.

Concept and Cultural Legacy

This project is not merely a building; it is viewed as a vehicle for cultural preservation. The conceptual goal is to weave the historical value represented by Tsuru Naka into a contemporary residential framework. The proportions and forms of the facade, crafted using the Yamato ratio (a classic aesthetic ratio of approximately 1:1.414, also known as the silver ratio), lend a prestigious character to the urban landscape.

Additionally, the internal spaces are designed for tranquility and comfort, with features like low overhangs, small gardens, and antique art that contribute to the ambiance. Reutilizing materials from existing buildings allows for a tangible connection to the past, embodying physical reminders of the area’s rich history and culture into modern living.

Building Overview

• - Location: Minato Ward, Akasaka, Tokyo
• - Units: 15
• - Structure: Reinforced concrete, 10 stories
• - Site Area: 278.49 square meters
• - Total Floor Area: 1,480.05 square meters
• - Usage: Residential/Commercial

About the Good Design Award

Established in 1957, the Good Design Award is one of Japan’s premier design evaluation and promotion initiatives. It offers recognition to outstanding designs that enhance the quality of life, while also addressing social challenges through design innovations. The award symbol, the G-Mark, is widely respected as a hallmark of excellence in design.

For more information, visit the Good Design Award official website.

In conclusion, THE AKASAKA RESIDENCE S.O.A. stands as a beacon of modern urban living, bridging the historical and the contemporary while fostering a sense of community. This project not only represents Takamatsu Construction’s architectural prowess but also contributes to the cultural tapestry of Akasaka, continuing its legacy into future generations.