New Atelier (2010 / Underground Parking Garage Conversion)

In 2010, we relocated our office to Shibuya. The new atelier is a 250 sqm space converted from an underground parking garage, where we have zoned diverse functions—such as work, prototyping, and a kitchen—without using any walls.

The approach to this atelier, which we relocated to in 2010, utilizes the former entrance ramp of the parking garage.

To resolve this steep incline and create a usable entrance floor, we adopted a “split-level” composition, which leads down a staircase to the main floor.

This concept of level changes, first used at the entrance, is expanded throughout the interior. We achieved wall-less zoning in this formerly flat concrete space by intentionally introducing steps and platforms.

All functions necessary for the atelier—workspaces, a kitchen, a shower room, and a workshop for prototyping and model making—are contained within this single space.

By articulating the space through differences in floor height rather than physical walls, sightlines remain unobstructed, while each zone simultaneously maintains its functional independence and sense of place.