the city above the city: muça + safaryan ecologically expand capsule tower in tokyo

envisioned by klaudio muça and ani safaryan for the city above the city competition, METABOLISM 2.0 is an innovative ecological vision of the renowned nakagin capsule tower in tokyo. designed by kurokowa kishou, the structure is an example of the japanese postwar architectural movement called metabolism — a historical concept which combines architecture and biological growth into one working body.

interior view of one capsule

the nakagin tower consists of many detachable capsules, already equipped with all necessary utilities. however, capsules have an expiration point; in other words they were meant to be replaced and renovated every 30 years but ended up remaining as is. therefore, the building has become outdated and with its current unchanged state, this important piece of architecture is destined to be abandoned and forgotten. considering this problematic, muça and safaryan propose to extend the existing supporting system of the tower and capsules, challenging the structural capacities of wood — an ecologically sustainable material. 

view from the roof of the nakagin tower

as the city of tokyo will continue to grow, demands for housing will increase significantly. in that sense, the proposed capsular system would adapt to the increasing needs for habitation units and might even expand unto the whole district — or even further.

competition board 1

competition board 2

competition board 3

competition board 4

metsbolism 2.0: design strategy of capsule expansion

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.