hiroyuki ito's tenjincho place is a curving slice of nature in tokyo

tenjincho place: a green retreat tucked away in tokyo

Japanese studio Hiroyuki Ito Architects has recently unveiled Tenjincho Place, a new apartment complex in Tokyo‘s Bunkyo ward. The building sits on the edge of a plateau in Yushima, overlooking the approach to a renowned shrine. This rapidly developing area has seen a significant shift in recent years, with hotels being replaced by apartment complexes. The studio’s design addresses two key challenges presented by the site — the plot’s unusual shape and the limited natural light due to surrounding high-rises.
images © Masao Nishikawa

the courtyard apartment complex by hiroyuki ito

The centerpiece of Tenjincho Place is its central courtyard, which Hiroyuki Ito Architects designed to ensure a light-filled atmosphere. A three-pronged approach was implemented to ensure a sense of light and openness. First, the architects minimized the number of corridors flanking the courtyard. By converting corridor ends into two-story maisonette units, they effectively reduced the corridors’ footprint and minimized shadow formation.

Next, the design incorporates side openings facing the courtyard, creating balconies for both residences and common areas. These openings allow light and air to enter the space from multiple directions. Finally, the team employed a unique textural treatment for the 30-meter (98-foot) high courtyard walls. By using unconventional materials for the formwork, they aimed to achieve a linear yet irregular appearance that enhances the perception of even the slightest light filtering into the space. The courtyard is designed with the potential for engagement with the public, with uses including a co-working area, a cafe, or a market.

the new apartment complex in Tokyo addresses challenges of a curved plot and limited natural light

supporting sustainable forestry practices

The formwork for the central courtyard incorporates a sustainable design element. It is constructed from Japanese cedar logs sourced from the Wooden Station Project in Sammu City, Chiba. This initiative aims to support healthy forests by acquiring thinned wood and forest residue from local owners. The forestry industry has recently faced challenges due to fungal diseases, which weaken and permanently mar trunks. By finding value in these materials, Hiroyuki Ito Architects sought to contribute to sustainable forestry practices.

Hiroyuki Ito Architects designed a central courtyard as the centerpiece of the complex

During construction, the logs were sliced into thin sections, retaining the bark on one side, and then affixed to plywood to create the formwork. This technique transferred the organic shapes and textures of the logs onto the concrete, resulting in a courtyard with a captivating interplay of light and shadow. The resulting texture evokes the image of a church in ruins, adding depth and character to an imposing space. The central courtyard is designed to provide residents and future visitors with a welcome respite from the urban environment.

to improve lighting, corridors flanking the courtyard are minimized and replaced with maisonette unit