Tokyo Construction Project :
Construction, Redevelopment and Renovation of Government of India Properties, 8 buildings in 6 properties, in Tokyo.

The premises facing Chidorigafuchi in Kudan have the most beautiful landscape in this project. Considering the relation of the two functions “Embassy” and “Cultural Centre”, and also the need to satisfy contradicting requirements in that while it is necessary to ensure security, general visitors need to enter the Embassy in order to apply for visa, we settled on a basic zoning concept which
* is structured so as to functionally divide the Embassy and the Cultural Centre with a main entrance in between, and
* provides another security area inside the semipublic part of the Embassy portion to accommodate the Embassy functions.
To respond to the floor shape which inevitably has a large depth due to the shape of the premises and the required area, we further plan to set up well-hole style spaces in the center letting in light and wind. This concept of taking in light and wind is also developed in the exterior design; the office on the east side facing Chidorigafuchi is basically open from the floor up to the ceiling. Wood is attached to the outside of the aluminum window frames of the opening, expressing a new facade of wood and glass, integrated with the wood-covered spandrel. One more glass screen attached by dot point glazing on the front surface of the window frame further enhances the sharp image of the overall building. This glass screen does not constitute the facade as regards the design, but functions to protect the wood parts attached to the above window frames from sunshine and rain and also as a simplified “double-skin” to stabilize the indoor environment. Over the entire exterior, this building is mainly made up of granite and glass. This is not only intended to express the sense of dignity associated with the function of an embassy, but also to generate create a friendly image through the combination with wood, and an image of sharpness using large size glass at various points, so as to create a presence that is suitable for a country like India which is going to make great progress in the future.

To maintain the important functions of the Embassy also during emergencies, this building has various measures in place with respect to its structure and equipment. The greatest structural characteristic is the employment of a seismic isolation structure.
To maintain the functions as an embassy also during a disaster, an emergency power generator is provided, as well as water tank (supports directly connected water supply if used only to supply water) to secure drinking water. Further, interim water is used for toilets, etc.