Rebirth and Evolution = Reb-O-Lution
This project was a renovation plan for the headquarters of a building maintenance company in the city of Nagoya. The client requested that the design not only facilitate smooth maintenance and future renovations but also increase the building’s value and ensure it remains high over the long term. We dubbed the design concept “Reb-O-Lution,” signifying the integration of the themes of “rebirth” and “evolution” in our approach to maintaining design integrity while ensuring a flexible spatial layout.
Enduring Design That Transcends Materials and Construction Methods
Rather than relying on new materials, construction techniques, or products that may become outdated over time, our plan focused on designing for ongoing maintenance of equipment, facilities, and finishes, as well as ease of future renovations. The design therefore ensures that when any changes are made, there will be no obvious dissimilarity between the new and old elements, allowing the overall aesthetic integrity of the space to be preserved.
Floor = Mosaic
When a floor is partially replaced, the age difference between the new and existing sections becomes evident, which can make the older areas appear outdated. However, using a mosaic pattern allows updates to be introduced gradually, enabling the design to evolve subtly and smoothly over time.
Wall = Stripes
Walls are subject to wear from the horizontal movement of people and objects, and such wear typically shows in the form of long horizontal marks. To reduce this effect and also ensure that renovations do not require entire walls to be replaced, the wall design employs horizontal stripes of varying materials and colors.
Ceiling = Random
The ceiling houses essential systems such as air conditioning, ventilation, lighting, fire safety, and communication infrastructure, all of which require updating more frequently than the ceiling itself requires new finishing. While these updates often involve removing or reapplying finishing materials, the joists (the structural framework of the ceiling) in this design are exposed and painted in random colors, while ceiling panels are limited to specific areas. This approach allows the ceiling to evolve with each update— much like the floor—resulting in a design that is dynamic and fluid.
Beyond Completion: Seamless Evolution Through Gradual Renewal
Even when partial renovations are undertaken, the design ensures that existing areas do not seem outdated. The space continues to maintain its original aesthetic, while over time, the new and old elements gradually blend together, enhancing the richness and character of the environment. This project aims to transcend aesthetic design and look beyond the mere selection of materials and use of new technologies—it seeks to establish a comprehensive design approach that allows the space to evolve and maintain its value beyond a set timeline.
Team:
Architecture: HUGO KOHNO ARCHITECT ASSOCIATES
Structural Engineer: Kentaro Nagasaka Engineering Network Co.Ltd.
Mechanical Engineer: Limited company Comodo
Photography: Seiichi Ohsawa
Materials Used:
Exterior Finish: Ceramic Silicone Resin Paint, Porcelain Tile
Floor: Carpet Tile
Wall: Wall Paper, Porcelain Tile, Mortar Finish
Ceiling: Acrylic Emulsion Paint Finish, Light Gauge Steel Framing + Laminated Wood
