16. Rolex Nakatsu Building, Osaka, Japan, 2009
The composition of the building was studied with consideration to the particular needs of the watch repair trade. The building uses red travertine cladding at the entrance as a marking element.
The typical floors are enclosed by a glass curtain wall with white ceramic frit, which creates a randomized pattern of circles and stripes. This pattern also effectively filters views of the neighboring streets. The tall cafeteria space on the top floor appears to float above the rectangular volume below, yielding panoramic views of the city.
17. 51 Astor Place, New York, United States 2013
Two distinct building envelopes that will complement and further accentuate this stepped building volume, as well as address the unique site location of 51 Astor Place. To address the large monolithic buildings along 4th Avenue, this portion of the building by Fumihiko Maki will be sheathed in a dark-tint, structurally glazed, unitized curtain wall system to conform to the existing streetscape. In stark contrast to the monolithic quality of the 4th Avenue facade, the 3rd Avenue facade will be sheathed in a unitized curtain wall system with silver vertical louvers. Depending on the angle in which the vertical louvers are viewed, the facade achieves varying degrees of transparency, continuously changing in appearance.
18. The National Institute for Japanese Language, Tachikawa, Tokyo, Japan 2004
The site is located in Tachikawa City, Tokyo, at the center of a block containing two other public facilities. Trees along the periphery of the site define its edge, act as a buffer, and contribute to a sense of calm on the block. The main access to the institute passes through a front garden, which doubles as a link to nearby facilities and a public space for the entire area. A secondary esplanade, weaving through trees, further integrates the surroundings and provides space for researchers to stroll or rest under the gentle shade of the foliage.
19. Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, Japan 1990
Befitting of its park-like surroundings, it is designed by Fumihiko Maki to include a variety of exterior spaces and a diversity of architectural expressions. Each building (main arena, sub-arena, and indoor pool) maintains its integrity as a large volume, while simultaneously establishing inviting humane exterior spaces for the public. Together, these elements constitute an expression of ‘collective form.’ As one’s viewpoint shifts, the overlapping of these volumes creates unexpected silhouettes.
20. Fujisawa Municipal Gymnasium, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan, 1984
Fujisawa Municipal Gymnasium combines a main arena and sub-arena, contra posed at a slight angle to one another and linked by a central entrance hall. Curving roof forms enclose the two arena volumes. The juxtaposition of these two forms creates a variety of silhouettes from different angles. The stainless-steel roof responds to subtle changes in the light. The reflection is sometimes calm, sometimes sharp.
