Dutch design studio OMA works in collaboration with partner Shohei Shigematsu as the two design the Harajuku Quest shopping center in Tokyo. Images were recently showcased and it featured a look at the stepped terraces and a greenery space on the rooftop.
Construction is now beginning and the building will be home to retail and dining spaces along with the aforementioned rooftop with living walls. It is located on a site that rests between Oku-Harajuku and Omotesando, which is right in the capital of Japan. The facade will have a different design and is made from glass as the side facing Omotesanda will have a "monolithic and clear face." The Harajuku side of the building will be seen with the stepped terraces.
Glass Facade Shopping Centers
OMA and Shohei Shigematsu Design the Harajuku Quest Retailer
Trend Themes
1. Glass Facade Designs - Opportunities for disruption in creating innovative glass facades for commercial buildings.
2. Greenery in Commercial Buildings - Opportunities for disruption in vertical and rooftop gardens in commercial buildings.
3. Mixed-use Shopping Centers - Opportunities for disruption in combining retail and dining spaces with green spaces in shopping centers.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture - The architecture industry can innovate by creating stunning designs for glass facade commercial buildings with integrated green spaces.
2. Commercial Real Estate - The commercial real estate industry can innovate by developing mixed-use shopping centers with green spaces to attract environmentally-conscious tenants.
3. Retail & Dining - The retail and dining industry can innovate by integrating green spaces with shopping malls to offer a unique experience to attract customers.