Construction has begun on OH-1, one of the largest redevelopment projects in Tokyo.
Designed by architecture firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), the project comprises two high-rise buildings with a total floor area of 360,000m². It also includes a landscaped public space.
OH-1 is located in Tokyo’s Ohtemachi district adjacent to the Imperial Palace East Gardens.
SOM's design partner Mustafa Abadan said: “We are thrilled to partner once again with Mitsui Fudosan on this transformative project, which will revitalise Ohtemachi to become not only a world-class business centre, but also the heart of a vibrant 24-hour neighborhood. Our design bridges Tokyo’s past and future, honoring the historical and cultural significance of its site and at the same time signaling Japan’s stature at the forefront of technology and innovation.”
This mixed-use development project will consist of commercial office space, a luxury hotel, retail, and cultural facilities. Constructed by real estate developer Mitsui Fudosan, the project will create a new corporate headquarters for Mitsui & Co, a large trading company in Japan.
OH-1 will continue collaborations between Mitsui Fudosan and SOM, which have together created several developments in Tokyo totaling more than two million square meters. These include 563,000m² mixed use development Tokyo Midtown completed in 2007, and the Nihonbashi 2 Redevelopment, which is currently under construction.
SOM’s design approach to the OH-1 project maintains a balance between tradition and innovation reflected in the design of the two towers.
Tower A is 160m tall will be the shorter of the two buildings. This tower’s design is inspired by traditional Japanese craftsmanship and woodworking techniques and will see addition of contemporary elements such as granite and glass.
Tower B will be 200m tall and have a range of sustainable design features to reduce energy use.
The OH-1 project is scheduled to get completed in 2020.
