Japan Projects

Takarazuka Community Center
Takarazuka, Japan

This community center designed by Ted Tokio Tanaka Architects is the first building in this new town development in Takarazuka, Japan. Important both as a significant example of western design in this area of Japan and for its utilization of American construction methods, this project has set the tone for the remainder of the development. As a prototype of high quality design and economical construction, the building has generated great interest among the Japanese for their new projects. The sleek, semi-circular structure has provided the client with a spacious and elegant information center and sales office while also serving the needs of the growing community. Moreover, the project has been praised by community members who admire it as a unique place, gracefully integrated with nature.

The design involves a subtle union of east and west — eastern in its simplicity and control of proportions, western in its scale and free-flowing plan. A sense of implied drama plays an important role throughout the building, particularly in the main public spaces where gathering, celebration and exhibition occur. The palette of crisp white, pale maple and dark slate combine to underscore a sense of commodious versatility. Completed in 1993, the Center has been featured in both Japanese and English publications.