1-19-1 Ebisu-Nishi
Photo by SS. inc
Akemi Kuno
Chief, Design and Construction Division, Kinki Head Branch
Daiwa House Industry Co., Ltd.
After expressing my wish to participate in Mr. Katayama’s project, I came to know that he had been also involved in a building that inspired me before, which further heightened my expectations for the project. At the first meeting, I looked at the beautiful drawings and toilet models fabricated with careful attention to the last detail. His attitude toward pursuing absolute beauty in presentation materials, buildings, and even in a single illumination struck me deeply. What I learned is that even if you run into an issue that seems very difficult, when you keep working on it diligently without compromise, then you’ll certainly find a way out, which can be linked to a next step.
Photo by SS. inc
The key element of the design was its fair-faced concrete walls with woody texture. As it involved a complex structure made up of 15 walls lined up randomly, we revised the execution drawings over and over again to determine the formwork allocation through repeated meetings with the project members who were in charge of construction, structures, and facilities. We also proposed minor adjustments that would be necessary for a structural reason, while adhering to the initial design plan. Our project was the first to be completed in the entire THE TOKYO TOILET project, the perfection level of which received compliments from Mr. Katayama and other related parties.
Looking back on the project
The design called for the installation of rotating lights outside around the toilet. When we were struggling to find a balance between the design and safety, the staff of Shibuya City office suggested independent indicators. So we proposed a signage that combines a rotating light and a tactile map. The plan was approved almost as it was and we were able to install it at the entrance. We also took charge of the planting design in front of the toilet. Obtaining the park greening drawings, I selected tree species to plant. Now, looking on the completed toilet that incorporates an element that I planned and proposed, I am again delighted to be involved in this project.
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