shimizu corporation transcends space with tokyo kaleidoscope

shimizu corporation transcends space with tokyo kaleidoscope
all images courtesy of shimizu corporation

reflecting the urban landscape of tokyo onto the inside of a life-sized kaleidoscope, japanese studio shimizu corporation has created an engaging and immersive exhibition. an illuminated map of the city illustrates the circular railway system’s yamanote line and 200 projects as if they are glowing stars in the sky. offering a full sensory overload, the metropolis is mimicked through mirrors, projections and flashing lights in reference to the rapid pace of modern society. wanting to evoke moments of surprise and joy for the visitors, the small volume appears as though it is never-ending, the perceived unlimited space expressing the infinite nature of the city. the design was based on the idea of ‘architecture for the people’ and the scenery on display focuses on the human figure with the built environment as the background. the experience of wandering through the simulated cityscape seems to transcend time, placing the observer in the center of their own world.

the life-sized kaleidoscope appears never-ending, expressing the infinite nature of the city

the mirrored environment reflects both visitors and the urban landscape of tokyo

six projects were 3D printed and placed in a void, displayed at their exact city location

the illuminated city map indicates the main railway terminal

the project weaves around the city structure with each plot glowing like stars in the sky

the major railway system’s yamanote line is represented the circular structure

drawings – plan, interior and elevation

layout of the exhibition space

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.