Though the 'HULIC & New Shibuya' building stands in the bright and bustling Center-Gai in Tokyo, the building still manages to stick out from the wealth of surrounding neon lights and general distraction thanks to a unique form factor. The building has 10 storeys, and each of those is stacked at a slightly askew angle from the one directly above and below it, leading to a haphazard shape for the structure as a whole — almost as if each level was placed atop the last completely at random.
Beyond the unique shape, the building is clad entirely in glass (save for the steel support beams). The purpose behind that decision "is to visualize every floor as a volume in which...pedestrians can perceive the inner life from the street." Not only is that a savvy commercial move, but it serves to brighten up the street as well.
Off-Kilter Office Buildings
'HULIC & New Shibuya' Features Skewed Glass Levels
Trend Themes
1. Skewed Architecture - Designing buildings with askew angles and unique shapes to stand out and create visual interest.
2. Transparent Facades - Using glass cladding to create visually appealing buildings that allow pedestrians to see the inner life of the structure from the street.
3. Commercial Street Revitalization - Transforming city streets through unique architectural designs that attract attention and brighten up the urban environment.
Industry Implications
1. Real Estate - Developing innovative and visually striking buildings to meet the demands of modern urban spaces.
2. Architecture - Utilizing unique design elements to create visually appealing and standout structures that redefine traditional building shapes.
3. Urban Planning - Revitalizing commercial streets by incorporating eye-catching architectural designs that draw attention and enhance the overall urban environment.