Tekko Building Achieves Top Rating in Green Certification
In a significant achievement for sustainable architecture, Tekko Building, located in Tokyo's Chiyoda Ward, has earned the prestigious five-star rating under the DBJ Green Building Certification (Office Building Version) by the Development Bank of Japan (DBJ) effective September 18, 2025. This recognition underscores the building's commitment to environmental performance while also prioritizing disaster resilience and community integration. The five-star rating positions Tekko Building among the top 10% of properties showcasing exceptional environmental and social considerations.
Background and Key Evaluation Points
Since its completion in October 2015, Tekko Building has adhered to the principle of "Connecting People, Cities, and Time" in its development strategy. The company has been proactively engaged in reducing environmental impacts, enhancing comfort, implementing disaster response measures, and fostering community collaboration.
This recent certification reflects a culmination of these efforts, with particularly high marks in the following areas:
1. Well-Being
Welcoming and comforting spaces are at the forefront of Tekko Building's design. The building boasts column-free areas with sufficient floor loading and ceiling heights, facilitating versatile use. It offers an array of amenities, including restaurants, convenience stores, clinics, conference rooms, and lounges. Furthermore, initiatives such as the installation of aroma diffusers and organizing yoga events aim to significantly enhance the well-being of its users.
2. Resilience
Preparedness for disasters and security is prioritized through comprehensive risk management strategies. Key steps include the adoption of seismic isolation systems, flood prevention measures via water stop boards, emergency power generation using dual-fuel generators, and collaboration with local authorities to support those stranded during emergencies. Additionally, a layered security system with 24-hour on-site management ensures user safety.
Integration with Existing Environmental Certifications
In 2023, Tekko Building also received the highest S rank in both CASBEE Real Estate Evaluation Certification and CASBEE Smart Wellness Office Evaluation Certification. This double-award recognition signifies its commitment to environmental, social, health, and disaster prevention facets, consolidating its comprehensive value.
Industry Trends and Expansion of Certification
Acquiring environmental certification is becoming increasingly vital for companies aiming to enhance sustainability, social trust, and real estate value. Since the establishment of the DBJ Green Building Certification program in 2011, over 2,500 properties have received certification, and by January 2025, the number of certifying businesses reached 734. Economic analyses conducted by DBJ indicate that certified properties may experience up to a 14.7% reduction in leasing time compared to non-certified counterparts.
With an increase in new office buildings spearheaded by large-scale developments in urban areas, older buildings like Tekko Building are actively pursuing environmental certifications to improve energy efficiency and reduce ecological footprints. This trend is catalyzed by:
1. Addressing ESG and SDGs for enhanced corporate value.
2. Focusing on user health and comfort.
3. Improving and differentiating the value of existing structures.
About Tekko Building Co., Ltd.
Company Name: Tekko Building Co., Ltd.
Location: 1-8-2 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
CEO: Shinichi Matsuoka
Founded: September 16, 1949
Official Website: Tekko Building
Project Website: TBG Project
Building Overview
- - Location: 1-8-2 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
- - Completion Date: End of October 2015
- - Primary Use:
- Main Building: Offices, retail, conference rooms, parking
- South Building: Service apartments, lounges, fitness center, commercial spaces, airport limousine bus terminal
- - Structure: Steel-frame, parts reinforced concrete
- - Floors: 26 above ground, 3 below ground, 1 tower, with a maximum height of approximately 135m
- - Site Area: Approximately 7,399㎡ (about 2,238 tsubo), Total floor area: approximately 117,972㎡ (about 35,686 tsubo)
- - Notes: Tekko Building received the highest S rank for both CASBEE Real Estate Evaluation Certification and CASBEE Smart Wellness Office Evaluation Certification on September 29, 2023. It was designated as an excellent green space by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government as “Edo's Green Registration Green area” in March 2025.