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These annual rankings were last updated on October 9, 2026. Want to see your firm on next year’s list? Continue reading for more on how you can improve your studio’s ranking.
Tokyo’s architectural landscape is a dynamic fusion of history and innovation. Prior to the WWII bombings, the city was composed of low-rise, traditional Edo-period buildings that were eventually destroyed. Today, the vibrant metropolis acts as a gateway to the future, where landmarks such as the Tokyo Skytree, the world’s tallest tower, have pushed the boundaries of architecture and construction technology. Architects such as Kenzo Tange, known for his work on the Yoyogi National Gymnasium, and Kengo Kuma, designer of the Japan National Stadium, have left indelible marks on the city’s skyline.
In parallel, Tokyo’s dense urban fabric has driven contemporary architects to develop an impressive and pioneering language of tall, compact buildings with an array of uses: residences, office spaces and commercial centers that incorporate cutting-edge sustainable and earthquake-resistant technologies have managed to transform the city into an urban landscape filled with architectural character and innovation.
With so many architecture firms to choose from, it’s challenging for clients to identify the industry leaders that will be an ideal fit for their project needs. Fortunately, Architizer is able to provide guidance on the top design firms in Tokyo based on more than a decade of data and industry knowledge.
The following ranking has been created according to key statistics that demonstrate each firm’s level of architectural excellence. The following metrics have been accumulated to establish each architecture firm’s ranking, in order of priority:
Each of these metrics is explained in more detail at the foot of this article. This ranking list will be updated annually, taking into account new achievements of Tokyo architecture firms throughout the year.
Without further ado, here are the 30 best architecture firms in Tokyo:
© Chiaki Arai Urban and Architecture Design
We have meticulously designed each building with a spirit of craftsmanship, taking our time to create each one carefully. Since the establishment of our office in 1980, we have created around 50 buildings with great care, and most of them have received high social acclaim, including awards.
Regardless of the size of the building, we proceed with the design by carefully building each step from the program and concept to the detailed design, considering every corner of the design. We aim to continue designing high-quality architecture while constantly challenging society with new concepts and programs.
Our design subjects range from products such as doorknobs and furniture to massive structures such as skyscrapers, and we have accumulated a wide range of work experience from details to urban planning. We are also actively involved in initiatives toward a sustainable society, such as the renovation design of the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse and the rural landscape development plan for scattered villages in Toyama Prefecture.
Some of v’s most prominent projects include:
The following statistics helped Chiaki Arai Urban and Architecture Design achieve 30th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
© Kubo Tsushima Architects
We envision architectural spaces as alternative environments to the natural world. By integrating elements of the natural environment — such as light, sound, heat and wind — through thoughtful and artificial manipulation, we create spaces that enhance human comfort and well-being.
For instance, we promote ventilation by channeling airflow across the ceiling, reinterpreting wind movements into the façade design, adding color to sunlight entering through windows, and blending natural daylight with LED illumination. These techniques transform commercial spaces into extraordinary experiences and residential spaces into havens of comfort.
We believe that we can uncover and implement numerous innovative and practical ideas by treating buildings of various purposes as spatial extensions of natural elements.
Some of Kubo Tsushima Architects’ most prominent projects include:
The following statistics helped Kubo Tsushima Architects achieve 29th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
© AMANE ARCHITECTS
The design philosophy of AMANE ARCHITECTS (Taro Shimokawa) is to create ‘something ordinary but special’. The company places importance on creating spaces where people can feel small happiness in their daily lives, and pursues a balance between universality and individuality.
Drawing on his experience of working in France, he characterizes his approach as a fusion of traditional Japanese techniques and Western design. Both buildings make use of natural materials such as domestic timber and plaster, and are designed with an eye to beautification over time.
Some of AMANE ARCHITECTS’ most prominent projects include:
The following statistics helped AMANE ARCHITECTS achieve 28th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
© GARDE Co., Ltd.
GARDE is a leading design company founded in 1985. We began providing retail design, branding and consulting services in Japan. We now have offices in Italy, Paris, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Singapore, Kuala Lampur, Los Angeles, New York, and we provide services on a global scale.
GARDE designs the interiors of luxury fashion stores, boutiques, hotels, department stores, shopping centers, corporate offices and high-end residences. It offers customized services to satisfy clients’ needs through its global network of talented designers and a cutting-edge knowledge of the latest trends. GARDE provides services from original concept design to implementation and construction.
Some of GARDE’s most prominent projects include:
The following statistics helped GARDE Co., Ltd. achieve 27th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
© Camp Design inc.
Camp Design inc. is based on architecture, from a small scale like joinery to a design that affects a large scale like a city. Focusing on the design of living spaces, we also work on apartment complexes, stores, churches, and meeting places. In addition, we operate “Todo,” a specialized manufacturer of joinery and design changes in distance, relationship and feel through joinery.
Some of Camp Design inc.’s most prominent projects include:
The following statistics helped Camp Design inc. achieve 26th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
© Archi Photo Co.Ltd.
Hiroyuki Moriyama is an architectural practice based in Tokyo, Japan, specializing in residential architecture.
Some of hiroyuki moriyama architect and associates’s most prominent projects include:
The following statistics helped hiroyuki moriyama architect and associates Inc, achieve 25th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
© Keikichi Yamauchi Architect and Associates
KIAS is an architectural design studio based in Tokyo.
Some of KIAS’s most prominent projects include:
The following statistics helped KIAS achieve 24th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
© TAPO Tomioka Architectural Planning Office
TAPO Tomioka Architectural Planning Office is based in Tokyo, Japan. Its work is centered around residential architecture.
Some of TAPO Tomioka Architectural Planning Office’s most prominent projects include:
The following statistics helped TAPO Tomioka Architectural Planning Office achieve 23rd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
© Junya Ishigami+Associates
junya.ishigami+associates is an international architecture firm based in Tokyo, Japan. Established by Junya Ishigami in 2004, the firm gained international recognition following the completion of the Kanagawa Institute of Technology’s KAIT Workshop in 2007, which was awarded the Architectural Institute of Japan Prize in 2009. Similar success followed with exhibitions at Venice Architecture Biennales, the latter of which was awarded the Golden Lion for Best Project of the 12th Biennale in 2010.
The office has continued to enjoy growing foreign attention for the wide range of design possibilities we explore, from numerous exhibitions and installation projects, such as ‘Ballon’ and ‘Table’, to large-scale construction commissions: current projects include a university multi-purpose plaza and a garden café in Japan, the redevelopment of the Russian Polytechnic Museum in Moscow, and the Park Groot Vijversburg Project in the Netherlands. Regardless of scale, each project is approached from a limitless and open-ended creative perspective to deliver a unique and inspiring outcome.
Some of Junya Ishigami+Associates’ most prominent projects include:
The following statistics helped Junya Ishigami+Associates achieve 22nd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
© Koichi Torimura
Toyo Ito & Associates Architects is an architecture firm based in Tokyo, Japan, specializing in institutional architecture.
Some of Toyo Ito & Associates Architects’ most prominent projects include:
The following statistics helped Toyo Ito & Associates Architects achieve 21st place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
© Asai Architects
We are always thinking of “How Design contributes to our lives.”
Good design gives you a lot of joy. And when design comes up to “Art,” your life will be something full of exploration. Design exists in everything, from the small things such as a pen to big things like cities. And it also exists in various media.
What we are good at is the design of architecture and things on a scale near that of architecture. We will collaborate with the client and sometimes a variety of specialists, as to play a help to help enrich your life.
Some of Asai Architects’ most prominent projects include:
The following statistics helped Asai Architects achieve 20th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
© Masaya Yoshimura
Born in 1967. He worked under Shiro Kuramata and Issey Miyake and established his own studio, TOKUJIN YOSHIOKA INC., in 2000. Active in the fields of design, architecture and contemporary art, he is highly acclaimed globally. The “Sakura Torch” for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, the glass bench exhibited at Musée d’Orsay called “Water Block,” the crystal prism architecture “Rainbow Church,” the natural crystal chair “VENUS,” and the glass teahouse “KOU-AN” are some of the many masterpieces announced. Many of his works are chosen as part of permanent collections in world-renowned museums, including the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), the Musée National d’Art Moderne and the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A).
Some of TOKUJIN YOSHIOKA DESIGN’s most prominent projects include:
The following statistics helped TOKUJIN YOSHIOKA DESIGN achieve 19th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
© ACF Photography
Nihon Sekkei is an architectural design firm offering comprehensive services in design, supervision and related services for architecture, civil engineering, urban design, regional development and renovation services as well as related consulting services.
Some of NIHON SEKKEI, INC.’s most prominent projects include:
The following statistics helped NIHON SEKKEI, INC. achieve 18th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
© Koichiro Oniki / ODS
Born in Tokyo in 1977. Graduated from Waseda University with a degree in architecture and entered Nikken Sekkei in the same year. Later moved to design studio Nendo and worked on projects around the world as spatial design chief director for 10 years. Established “ODS / Oniki Design Studio” in 2015.
Some of Koichiro Oniki / ODS’ most prominent projects include:
The following statistics helped Koichiro Oniki / ODS achieve 17th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
© Endo Architect and Associates
Architecture is “current circumstance.” The built form is thus an integrated part of its environment. I do not just make architecture as an object, but I wish to involve the surrounding context, influence others, and design something like a mass of air which wraps around architecture, people and activities all together. It is more than an action to express architecture, but also an action to mark the “current” time using architecture as a resource.
The importance of designing this “current circumstance” in each region is to know what the “social capital” is in that area. A lot of the community has not realized its value, and therefore they have not known the existence of their “social capital”. They are too close to understand for themselves what their capital is. Architects today, when designing as professionals, are required to find the region’s social capital and report back to the community. I believe that this important social capital needs to be utilized and well expressed through its architecture.
Some of Endo Architect and Associates’ most prominent projects include:
The following statistics helped Endo Architect and Associates achieve 16th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
© Fumihiko Sano Studio
Born in 1981 in Nara Prefecture. Sano began his career as an apprentice as a Sukiya carpenter at Nakamura Souji Komuten in Kyoto. After working at a design office, he created an independent studio in 2011. Utilizing the construction methods, materials and sense of space gained from the onsite experience, Sano utilizes the Japanese culture of today as a basis for concepts and designs.
In 2016, he visited 16 countries around the world and carried out a project to create a tea room as a place of hospitality in each location. Aiming to create new value for the culture of various regions, he continues to carry out cross-disciplinary works in architecture, interior design, product design and artwork.
Some of Fumihiko Sano Studio’s most prominent projects include:
The following statistics helped Fumihiko Sano Studio achieve 15th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
© frontofficetokyo
frontofficetokyo is a multi-disciplinary architecture and planning office in Tokyo. Our work is strongly influenced by research on the urban context and ways of living in a highly urbanized world. Our starting point is that the city is the new nature, and in that case new kinds of architecture and urban form are needed. At larger scales, we are focused on regional and master planning that incorporates social issues and science, from energy to economics and population change, in order to develop a more resilient and sustainable future. At the smaller scale, we are working on ways to create flexibility in the workspace and in retail design, allowing users to take part in the process of building an office or shop through the lessons of daily experience and need.
Some of frontofficetokyo’s most prominent projects include:
The following statistics helped frontofficetokyo achieve 14th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
© NTT FACILITIES, INC.
At NTT Facilities, we leverage our track record and technological capabilities in supporting Japan’s information and communications society to tackle the various issues facing society head-on and work with our customers to resolve them.
We will continue to create and protect a sustainable future that is kind to people, society, and the earth.
Some of NTT Facilities’ most prominent projects include:
The following statistics helped NTT FACILITIES, INC. achieve 13th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
© YUUA
YUUA is a first-class licensed architectural firm located in a 100-year-old traditional Japanese townhouse in the quaint neighborhood of Koenji, Tokyo. We place great importance on dialogue with our clients to create the narrative of every design together, adjusted to the user and location. We offer multilingual design, consulting and supervision services for a wide range of buildings and spaces. Through our design, we hope to create value for both the city and society. From a single apartment renovation to large real estate development, please feel free to contact us with your inquiries.
Some of YUUA’s most prominent projects include:
The following statistics helped YUUA achieve 12th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
© TDSTUDIO
tdstudio is a small, collaborative, and diverse international architectural office based in Tokyo.
At tdstudio (Tsushima Design Studio), we strive to create more memorable and enchanting spaces through the utilization of transformative architecture. Through thoughtful transformations of the project site, existing structures, architectural landscapes, and the surrounding environment, we are able to create an overall clarity within our architectural projects, which helps us to define more “TANGIBLE SPACES.”
In all of our projects, we are committed to the creation of architecture that is sensitive to its surroundings not only now, but also throughout the lifetime of the building and beyond. Programmatic functioning, site conditions, regional context, the surrounding environment, as well as local cultures and technologies are all carefully studied and implemented into each individual project.
Some of TDSTUDIO’s most prominent projects include:
The following statistics helped TDSTUDIO achieve 11th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
© ©Koji Fujii /TOREAL (16)
Yohei Kawashima Architects was founded in 2014 by Youhei Kawashima and is based in Tokyo, Japan. The firm is well-versed in the design of large-scale apartment buildings as well as retail architecture.
Some of Yohei Kawashima architects’ most prominent projects include:
The following statistics helped Yohei Kawashima architects inc. achieve 10th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
© kasa architects
We want to create places, not buildings. We share our clients’ ideas and wishes, discovering the joys and comforts of a new way of life. We value the qualities of a place, and we want to create rich spaces by pursuing the possibilities of architecture.
Some of kasa architects’ most prominent projects include:
The following statistics helped kasa architects achieve 9th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
© Takumi Ota Photography
We seek to reinterpret architecture’s position within cultural practices that determine meaning, particularly within the will of epoch analysis. The investigations traverse not only conventional notions of space, enclosure and order but also the fluctuating frames that define spaces.
Some of Ryuichi Sasaki Architecture’s most prominent projects include:
The following statistics helped RYUICHI SASAKI ARCHITECTURE achieve 8th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
© Florian Busch Architects
Florian Busch Architects is an office practicing architecture, urbanism, and socio-cultural analysis. Based in Tokyo, FBA draws on a worldwide network of expert consultants, architects and engineers, accumulating several decades of experience in the ἀeld of building. Understanding architecture as the result of interactions between multiple fields, FBA, from the outset of any project, devises spatial strategies working in feedback processes with a diversity of consultants to drive the project towards solutions beyond the imagined.
Florian Busch Architectural Design Office is an office that engages in research on architecture, urban planning, society and culture. Based in Tokyo, we have a network of numerous engineers who have decades of experience and trust in the architectural world.
Some of Florian Busch Architects’ most prominent projects include:
The following statistics helped Florian Busch Architects achieve 7th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
© Akira Koyama + KEY OPERATION INC. / ARCHITECTS
Our aim is to find the simplest and most innovative space composition, construction method or other architectural technique that tackles the different problems and gives a coherent, clever, logical solution. In order to do so, we will investigate and analyze the customer’s requirements, observe the urban context, understand the social interactions, acknowledge local history, culture, regulations and natural environment and study building materials and techniques.
Some of Akira Koyama + KEY OPERATION INC. / ARCHITECTS’ most prominent projects include:
The following statistics helped Akira Koyama + KEY OPERATION INC. / ARCHITECTS achieve 6th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
© Hiroshi Nakamura & NAP
Hiroshi Nakamura & NAP was established in 2002 by Hiroshi Nakamura. He believes in constructing an organic relationship between “architecture, nature, and the body” through “microscopic design” that is close to natural phenomena, people’s behavior, and emotional movements. And we aim to harmonize them with “architecture that can only be found there” based on the history, culture, industry, materials, etc. of the region. In recent years, he has found the essence of this in traditional Japanese architecture and garden culture, and is working to reconstruct them.
Some of Hiroshi Nakamura & NAP’s most prominent projects include:
The following statistics helped Hiroshi Nakamura & NAP achieve 5th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
© emmanuelle moureaux INC.
Emmanuelle Moureaux is a French architect and artist based in Tokyo since 1996. Inspired by the layered colors of the city and traditional Japanese spatial elements such as sliding screens, she has developed the concept of shikiri — using color as a three-dimensional element to divide and create space.
Color is her signature medium. Through color, she creates architecture, installations, and artworks that shape space, rhythm, and perception. Since 2013, her ongoing “100 colors” series has transformed 100 shades of color into spatial experiences. In her work, color is not applied to surfaces as decoration, but used as a medium to create space itself.
Her notable works include sculptural entrances for Google Headquarters, architectural design for Sugamo Shinkin Bank, installations for UNIQLO and ISSEY MIYAKE and Forest of Numbers at The National Art Center, Tokyo.
Some of emmanuelle moureaux INC.’s most prominent projects include:
The following statistics helped emmanuelle moureaux INC. achieve 4th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
© Nendo
Giving people a small “!” moment. There are so many small “!” moments hidden in our everyday. But we don’t recognize them.and even when we do recognize them, we tend to unconsciously reset our minds and forget what we’ve seen. But we believe these small “!” moments are what make our days so interesting, so rich. That’s why we want to reconstitute the everyday by collecting and reshaping them into something that’s easy to understand. We’d like the people who’ve encountered nendo’s designs to feel these small “!” moments intuitively. That’s Nendo’s job.
Some of Nendo’s most prominent projects include:
The following statistics helped Nendo achieve 3rd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
© Kengo Kuma and Associates
Kengo Kuma was born in 1954. He established Kengo Kuma & Associates in 1990. He is currently a University Professor and Professor Emeritus at the University of Tokyo and a member of the Japan Art Academy after teaching at Keio University and the University of Tokyo. KKAA projects are currently underway in more than 50 countries.
Kengo Kuma proposes architecture that opens up new relationships between nature, technology and human beings. His major publications include Kengo Kuma Onomatopoeia Architecture Grounding (X-Knowledge), Nihon no Kenchiku (Architecture of Japan, Iwanami Shoten), Zen Shigoto (Kengo Kuma – the complete works, Daiwa Shobo), Ten Sen Men (Point Line Plane, Iwanami Shoten), Makeru Kenchiku (Architecture of Defeat, Iwanami Shoten), Shizen na Kenchiku (Natural Architecture, Iwanami Shinsho), Chii-sana Kenchiku (Small Architecture, Iwanami Shinsho) and many others.
Some of Kengo Kuma and Associates’ most prominent projects include:
The following statistics helped Kengo Kuma and Associates achieve 2nd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
© SS Co.,Ltd.
At Nikken Sekkei, we take an integrated approach to our projects as a professional service firm. Across all in-house disciplines of architectural design: urban design, research, planning and consulting. Our teams work collaboratively to deliver better solutions for clients.
Some of NIKKEN SEKKEI LTD’s most prominent projects include:
The following statistics helped NIKKEN SEKKEI LTD achieve 1st place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
With more than 30,000 architecture firms and over 130,000 projects within its database, Architizer is proud to host the world’s largest online community of architects and building product manufacturers. Its celebrated A+Awards program is also the largest celebration of architecture and building products, with more than 400 jurors and hundreds of thousands of public votes helping to recognize the world’s best architecture each year.
Architizer also powers firm directories for a number of AIA (American Institute of Architects) Chapters nationwide, including the official directory of architecture firms for AIA New York.
An example of a project page on Architizer with Project Award Badges highlighted
The blue “+” badge denotes that a project has won a prestigious A+Award as described above. Hovering over the badge reveals details of the award, including award category, year, and whether the project won the jury or popular choice award.
The orange Project of the Day and yellow Featured Project badges are awarded by Architizer’s Editorial team, and are selected based on a number of factors. The following factors increase a project’s likelihood of being featured or awarded Project of the Day status:
There are 7 Projects of the Day each week and a further 31 Featured Projects. Each Project of the Day is published on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Stories, while each Featured Project is published on Facebook. Each Project of the Day also features in Architizer’s Weekly Projects Newsletter and shared with 170,000 subscribers.
We’re constantly look for the world’s best architects to join our community. If you would like to understand more about this ranking list and learn how your firm can achieve a presence on it, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at [email protected].
The post 30 Best Architecture and Design Firms in Tokyo appeared first on Journal.
Tokyo’s architectural landscape is a dynamic fusion of history and innovation. Prior to the WWII bombings, the city was composed of low-rise, traditional Edo-period buildings that were eventually destroyed. Today, the vibrant metropolis acts as a gateway to the future, where landmarks such as the Tokyo Skytree, the world’s tallest tower, have pushed the boundaries of architecture and construction technology. Architects such as Kenzo Tange, known for his work on the Yoyogi National Gymnasium, and Kengo Kuma, designer of the Japan National Stadium, have left indelible marks on the city’s skyline.
In parallel, Tokyo’s dense urban fabric has driven contemporary architects to develop an impressive and pioneering language of tall, compact buildings with an array of uses: residences, office spaces and commercial centers that incorporate cutting-edge sustainable and earthquake-resistant technologies have managed to transform the city into an urban landscape filled with architectural character and innovation.
With so many architecture firms to choose from, it’s challenging for clients to identify the industry leaders that will be an ideal fit for their project needs. Fortunately, Architizer is able to provide guidance on the top design firms in Tokyo based on more than a decade of data and industry knowledge.
How are these architecture firms ranked?
The following ranking has been created according to key statistics that demonstrate each firm’s level of architectural excellence. The following metrics have been accumulated to establish each architecture firm’s ranking, in order of priority:
- The number of A+Awards won (2013 to 2026)
- The number of A+Awards finalists (2013 to 2026)
- The number of projects selected as “Project of the Day” (2009 to 2026)
- The number of projects selected as “Featured Project” (2009 to 2026)
- The number of projects uploaded to Architizer (2009 to 2026)
Each of these metrics is explained in more detail at the foot of this article. This ranking list will be updated annually, taking into account new achievements of Tokyo architecture firms throughout the year.
Without further ado, here are the 30 best architecture firms in Tokyo:
30. Chiaki Arai Urban and Architecture Design
© Chiaki Arai Urban and Architecture Design
We have meticulously designed each building with a spirit of craftsmanship, taking our time to create each one carefully. Since the establishment of our office in 1980, we have created around 50 buildings with great care, and most of them have received high social acclaim, including awards.
Regardless of the size of the building, we proceed with the design by carefully building each step from the program and concept to the detailed design, considering every corner of the design. We aim to continue designing high-quality architecture while constantly challenging society with new concepts and programs.
Our design subjects range from products such as doorknobs and furniture to massive structures such as skyscrapers, and we have accumulated a wide range of work experience from details to urban planning. We are also actively involved in initiatives toward a sustainable society, such as the renovation design of the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse and the rural landscape development plan for scattered villages in Toyama Prefecture.
Some of v’s most prominent projects include:
- Yurihonjo City Cultural Center, Kadare, Yurihonjo, Japan
- Hachijo Government Building and Hall/ Ojar, Japan
The following statistics helped Chiaki Arai Urban and Architecture Design achieve 30th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
| A+Awards Finalist | 2 |
| Featured Projects | 2 |
| Total Projects | 2 |
29. Kubo Tsushima Architects
© Kubo Tsushima Architects
We envision architectural spaces as alternative environments to the natural world. By integrating elements of the natural environment — such as light, sound, heat and wind — through thoughtful and artificial manipulation, we create spaces that enhance human comfort and well-being.
For instance, we promote ventilation by channeling airflow across the ceiling, reinterpreting wind movements into the façade design, adding color to sunlight entering through windows, and blending natural daylight with LED illumination. These techniques transform commercial spaces into extraordinary experiences and residential spaces into havens of comfort.
We believe that we can uncover and implement numerous innovative and practical ideas by treating buildings of various purposes as spatial extensions of natural elements.
Some of Kubo Tsushima Architects’ most prominent projects include:
- “Hi Toilet” THE TOKYO TOILET Nanago Dori Park, Shibuya City, Japan
- Rainbow Chapel, Tokyo, Japan
- Ryogoku Yuya Edoyu, Sumida City, Japan
- Bath House Maruhon, Japan
- Concerto, Tokyo, Japan
The following statistics helped Kubo Tsushima Architects achieve 29th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
| Featured Projects | 2 |
| Total Projects | 11 |
28. AMANE ARCHITECTS
© AMANE ARCHITECTS
The design philosophy of AMANE ARCHITECTS (Taro Shimokawa) is to create ‘something ordinary but special’. The company places importance on creating spaces where people can feel small happiness in their daily lives, and pursues a balance between universality and individuality.
Drawing on his experience of working in France, he characterizes his approach as a fusion of traditional Japanese techniques and Western design. Both buildings make use of natural materials such as domestic timber and plaster, and are designed with an eye to beautification over time.
Some of AMANE ARCHITECTS’ most prominent projects include:
- ONDSAUNA, Japan
- Kyushoin, Taito City, Japan
- OND STUDIO, Takeo, Japan
- House O, Itō, Japan
- Jinakachi, Shimane, Japan
The following statistics helped AMANE ARCHITECTS achieve 28th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
| A+Awards Winner | 1 |
| Featured Projects | 2 |
| Total Projects | 9 |
27. GARDE
© GARDE Co., Ltd.
GARDE is a leading design company founded in 1985. We began providing retail design, branding and consulting services in Japan. We now have offices in Italy, Paris, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Singapore, Kuala Lampur, Los Angeles, New York, and we provide services on a global scale.
GARDE designs the interiors of luxury fashion stores, boutiques, hotels, department stores, shopping centers, corporate offices and high-end residences. It offers customized services to satisfy clients’ needs through its global network of talented designers and a cutting-edge knowledge of the latest trends. GARDE provides services from original concept design to implementation and construction.
Some of GARDE’s most prominent projects include:
- THE DRAPE, Osaka, Japan
- Doota Shopping Mall, Seoul, South Korea
- adidas Japan Headquarters Office & Showroom, Tokyo, Japan
- Chaoyang Joycity 2F Shoes Retail Area, Beijing, China
- Hyundai City Outlets Dongdaemun, Seoul, South Korea
The following statistics helped GARDE Co., Ltd. achieve 27th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
| A+Awards Winner | 1 |
| A+Awards Finalist | 1 |
| Total Projects | 11 |
26. Camp Design inc.
© Camp Design inc.
Camp Design inc. is based on architecture, from a small scale like joinery to a design that affects a large scale like a city. Focusing on the design of living spaces, we also work on apartment complexes, stores, churches, and meeting places. In addition, we operate “Todo,” a specialized manufacturer of joinery and design changes in distance, relationship and feel through joinery.
Some of Camp Design inc.’s most prominent projects include:
- House in Midorigaoka, Kobe, Japan
- House Between Pillars, Nishitokyo, Japan
- Wing Wall House, Nishitokyo, Japan
The following statistics helped Camp Design inc. achieve 26th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
| Featured Projects | 3 |
| Total Projects | 3 |
25. hiroyuki moriyama architect and associates
© Archi Photo Co.Ltd.
Hiroyuki Moriyama is an architectural practice based in Tokyo, Japan, specializing in residential architecture.
Some of hiroyuki moriyama architect and associates’s most prominent projects include:
- Company Building in Kanagawa, Japan
- Apartment in Minami-Azabu, Tokyo, Japan
- Apartment in Katsushika, Tokyo, Japan
The following statistics helped hiroyuki moriyama architect and associates Inc, achieve 25th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
| Featured Projects | 3 |
| Total Projects | 3 |
24. KIAS
© Keikichi Yamauchi Architect and Associates
KIAS is an architectural design studio based in Tokyo.
Some of KIAS’s most prominent projects include:
- House in Minami Karuizawa, Karuizawa, Japan
- Four Leaves, Karuizawa, Japan
- Asymmetric House, Chiba, Japan
- Kawamura Electric Inc. New Headquarters, Japan
The following statistics helped KIAS achieve 24th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
| Featured Projects | 3 |
| Total Projects | 4 |
23. TAPO Tomioka Architectural Planning Office
© TAPO Tomioka Architectural Planning Office
TAPO Tomioka Architectural Planning Office is based in Tokyo, Japan. Its work is centered around residential architecture.
Some of TAPO Tomioka Architectural Planning Office’s most prominent projects include:
- Villa in Chonan, Chonan, Japan
- Villa in Sakura, Sakura, Japan
- Horizon House, Omaezaki, Japan
- Residence in Atami, Atami, Japan
- Villa in Raizan, Itoshima, Japan
The following statistics helped TAPO Tomioka Architectural Planning Office achieve 23rd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
| Featured Projects | 3 |
| Total Projects | 6 |
22. Junya Ishigami+Associates
© Junya Ishigami+Associates
junya.ishigami+associates is an international architecture firm based in Tokyo, Japan. Established by Junya Ishigami in 2004, the firm gained international recognition following the completion of the Kanagawa Institute of Technology’s KAIT Workshop in 2007, which was awarded the Architectural Institute of Japan Prize in 2009. Similar success followed with exhibitions at Venice Architecture Biennales, the latter of which was awarded the Golden Lion for Best Project of the 12th Biennale in 2010.
The office has continued to enjoy growing foreign attention for the wide range of design possibilities we explore, from numerous exhibitions and installation projects, such as ‘Ballon’ and ‘Table’, to large-scale construction commissions: current projects include a university multi-purpose plaza and a garden café in Japan, the redevelopment of the Russian Polytechnic Museum in Moscow, and the Park Groot Vijversburg Project in the Netherlands. Regardless of scale, each project is approached from a limitless and open-ended creative perspective to deliver a unique and inspiring outcome.
Some of Junya Ishigami+Associates’ most prominent projects include:
- Plaza of Kanagawa Institute of Technology, Atsugi, Japan
- Zaishui Art Museum, Rizhao, China
- Kanagawa Institute of Technology KAIT Workshop, Kanagawa, Japan
- Chapel of Valley, Rizhao, China
The following statistics helped Junya Ishigami+Associates achieve 22nd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
| Featured Projects | 2 |
| Total Projects | 4 |
21. Toyo Ito & Associates Architects
© Koichi Torimura
Toyo Ito & Associates Architects is an architecture firm based in Tokyo, Japan, specializing in institutional architecture.
Some of Toyo Ito & Associates Architects’ most prominent projects include:
- Gaia, Singapore, Singapore
- Soma City HOME-FOR-ALL, Kitaiibuchi, Soma, Japan
- Tama Art University Library, Hachioji, Japan
- Serpentine Gallery Pavilion with Toyo Ito, London, United Kingdom
- Taichung National Theater, Taichung, Taiwan
The following statistics helped Toyo Ito & Associates Architects achieve 21st place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
| A+Awards Winner | 1 |
| Featured Projects | 2 |
| Total Projects | 5 |
20. Asai Architects
© Asai Architects
We are always thinking of “How Design contributes to our lives.”
Good design gives you a lot of joy. And when design comes up to “Art,” your life will be something full of exploration. Design exists in everything, from the small things such as a pen to big things like cities. And it also exists in various media.
What we are good at is the design of architecture and things on a scale near that of architecture. We will collaborate with the client and sometimes a variety of specialists, as to play a help to help enrich your life.
Some of Asai Architects’ most prominent projects include:
- OFFICE Miura Koumuten, Tokyo, Japan
- SARA, Tokyo, Japan
- House I, Tokyo, Japan
- Kameari Katori Shrine, Tokyo, Japan
The following statistics helped Asai Architects achieve 20th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
| Featured Projects | 3 |
| Total Projects | 4 |
19. TOKUJIN YOSHIOKA DESIGN
© Masaya Yoshimura
Born in 1967. He worked under Shiro Kuramata and Issey Miyake and established his own studio, TOKUJIN YOSHIOKA INC., in 2000. Active in the fields of design, architecture and contemporary art, he is highly acclaimed globally. The “Sakura Torch” for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, the glass bench exhibited at Musée d’Orsay called “Water Block,” the crystal prism architecture “Rainbow Church,” the natural crystal chair “VENUS,” and the glass teahouse “KOU-AN” are some of the many masterpieces announced. Many of his works are chosen as part of permanent collections in world-renowned museums, including the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), the Musée National d’Art Moderne and the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A).
Some of TOKUJIN YOSHIOKA DESIGN’s most prominent projects include:
- KOU-AN Glass Tea House, Kyoto, Japan
- Rainbow Church, Tokyo, Japan
- Reality Lab. Issey Miyake, Tokyo, Japan
- Issey Miyake London, London, United Kingdom
- Issey Miyake Marunouchi, Tokyo, Japan
The following statistics helped TOKUJIN YOSHIOKA DESIGN achieve 19th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
| Featured Projects | 3 |
| Total Projects | 5 |
18. NIHON SEKKEI, INC.
© ACF Photography
Nihon Sekkei is an architectural design firm offering comprehensive services in design, supervision and related services for architecture, civil engineering, urban design, regional development and renovation services as well as related consulting services.
Some of NIHON SEKKEI, INC.’s most prominent projects include:
- Shanghai jiuguang center, Shanghai, China
- Guangzhou World Port Transportation Tower, Guangzhou, China
- Alibaba Xixi Campus (Park C), Hangzhou, China
- TAIZHOU HOSPITAL NEW MEDICAL DISTRICT, China
The following statistics helped NIHON SEKKEI, INC. achieve 18th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
| A+Awards Finalist | 2 |
| Featured Projects | 3 |
| Total Projects | 4 |
17. Koichiro Oniki / ODS
© Koichiro Oniki / ODS
Born in Tokyo in 1977. Graduated from Waseda University with a degree in architecture and entered Nikken Sekkei in the same year. Later moved to design studio Nendo and worked on projects around the world as spatial design chief director for 10 years. Established “ODS / Oniki Design Studio” in 2015.
Some of Koichiro Oniki / ODS’ most prominent projects include:
- Hermès Gion-mise, Kyoto, Japan
- Artglorieux, Ginza, Chuo, Japan
- SHIRO Tamagawa, Tokyo, Japan
- STUDIOUS Namba, Osaka, Japan
- STUDIOUS CITY, Osaka, Japan
The following statistics helped Koichiro Oniki / ODS achieve 17th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
| A+Awards Winner | 1 |
| A+Awards Finalist | 1 |
| Featured Projects | 2 |
| Total Projects | 11 |
16. Endo Architect and Associates
© Endo Architect and Associates
Architecture is “current circumstance.” The built form is thus an integrated part of its environment. I do not just make architecture as an object, but I wish to involve the surrounding context, influence others, and design something like a mass of air which wraps around architecture, people and activities all together. It is more than an action to express architecture, but also an action to mark the “current” time using architecture as a resource.
The importance of designing this “current circumstance” in each region is to know what the “social capital” is in that area. A lot of the community has not realized its value, and therefore they have not known the existence of their “social capital”. They are too close to understand for themselves what their capital is. Architects today, when designing as professionals, are required to find the region’s social capital and report back to the community. I believe that this important social capital needs to be utilized and well expressed through its architecture.
Some of Endo Architect and Associates’ most prominent projects include:
- Homigaoka Kindergarten, Toyota, Japan
- La Cienega West, Nagano, Japan
- Anniversary Hall University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Villa in Tsurudamari, Nagano, Japan
- Toyota City Nature Center, Aichi Prefecture, Japan
The following statistics helped Endo Architect and Associates achieve 16th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
| Featured Projects | 4 |
| Total Projects | 6 |
15. Fumihiko Sano Studio
© Fumihiko Sano Studio
Born in 1981 in Nara Prefecture. Sano began his career as an apprentice as a Sukiya carpenter at Nakamura Souji Komuten in Kyoto. After working at a design office, he created an independent studio in 2011. Utilizing the construction methods, materials and sense of space gained from the onsite experience, Sano utilizes the Japanese culture of today as a basis for concepts and designs.
In 2016, he visited 16 countries around the world and carried out a project to create a tea room as a place of hospitality in each location. Aiming to create new value for the culture of various regions, he continues to carry out cross-disciplinary works in architecture, interior design, product design and artwork.
Some of Fumihiko Sano Studio’s most prominent projects include:
- MIWA, Paris, France
- MoyaMoya, Higashikurume, Japan
- En yu-An, Taito, Japan
- Material Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan
- Shichu no Sankyo, Chūō-ku, Japan
The following statistics helped Fumihiko Sano Studio achieve 15th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
| Featured Projects | 4 |
| Total Projects | 15 |
14. frontofficetokyo
© frontofficetokyo
frontofficetokyo is a multi-disciplinary architecture and planning office in Tokyo. Our work is strongly influenced by research on the urban context and ways of living in a highly urbanized world. Our starting point is that the city is the new nature, and in that case new kinds of architecture and urban form are needed. At larger scales, we are focused on regional and master planning that incorporates social issues and science, from energy to economics and population change, in order to develop a more resilient and sustainable future. At the smaller scale, we are working on ways to create flexibility in the workspace and in retail design, allowing users to take part in the process of building an office or shop through the lessons of daily experience and need.
Some of frontofficetokyo’s most prominent projects include:
- Avelgem Housing, Belgium
- D Flat, Tokyo, Japan
- m house, Tokyo, Japan
- Oyamadai House, Tokyo, Japan
- akasaka apartment, Tokyo, Japan
The following statistics helped frontofficetokyo achieve 14th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
| A+Awards Finalist | 1 |
| Featured Projects | 3 |
| Total Projects | 5 |
13. NTT Facilities
© NTT FACILITIES, INC.
At NTT Facilities, we leverage our track record and technological capabilities in supporting Japan’s information and communications society to tackle the various issues facing society head-on and work with our customers to resolve them.
We will continue to create and protect a sustainable future that is kind to people, society, and the earth.
Some of NTT Facilities’ most prominent projects include:
- NTT Pavilion ～Architecture Draped in Emotion～, Osaka, Japan
The following statistics helped NTT FACILITIES, INC. achieve 13th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
| A+Awards Winner | 2 |
| A+Awards Finalist | 1 |
| Featured Projects | 1 |
| Total Projects | 1 |
12. YUUA
© YUUA
YUUA is a first-class licensed architectural firm located in a 100-year-old traditional Japanese townhouse in the quaint neighborhood of Koenji, Tokyo. We place great importance on dialogue with our clients to create the narrative of every design together, adjusted to the user and location. We offer multilingual design, consulting and supervision services for a wide range of buildings and spaces. Through our design, we hope to create value for both the city and society. From a single apartment renovation to large real estate development, please feel free to contact us with your inquiries.
Some of YUUA’s most prominent projects include:
- 1.8-M Width House, Toshima, Japan
- 360° House, Sapporo, Japan
- coniwa -cooperative house-, Tokyo, Japan
- In-Between Dwelling, Tokyo, Japan
- NOIE -cooperative house-, Nakano, Japan
The following statistics helped YUUA achieve 12th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
| A+Awards Winner | 1 |
| A+Awards Finalist | 3 |
| Featured Projects | 5 |
| Total Projects | 5 |
11. TDSTUDIO
© TDSTUDIO
tdstudio is a small, collaborative, and diverse international architectural office based in Tokyo.
At tdstudio (Tsushima Design Studio), we strive to create more memorable and enchanting spaces through the utilization of transformative architecture. Through thoughtful transformations of the project site, existing structures, architectural landscapes, and the surrounding environment, we are able to create an overall clarity within our architectural projects, which helps us to define more “TANGIBLE SPACES.”
In all of our projects, we are committed to the creation of architecture that is sensitive to its surroundings not only now, but also throughout the lifetime of the building and beyond. Programmatic functioning, site conditions, regional context, the surrounding environment, as well as local cultures and technologies are all carefully studied and implemented into each individual project.
Some of TDSTUDIO’s most prominent projects include:
- Mei Zhou Church, Hangzhou, China
- Shanghai Wujifang, Shanghai, China
- Tianzhu Marketing Center, Beijing, China
- N-House, Tokyo, Japan
- Y-House, Japan
The following statistics helped TDSTUDIO achieve 11th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
| Featured Projects | 5 |
| Total Projects | 6 |
10. Yohei Kawashima architects
© ©Koji Fujii /TOREAL (16)
Yohei Kawashima Architects was founded in 2014 by Youhei Kawashima and is based in Tokyo, Japan. The firm is well-versed in the design of large-scale apartment buildings as well as retail architecture.
Some of Yohei Kawashima architects’ most prominent projects include:
- N_apartment, Miyakojima, Japan
- O_building, Tokyo, Japan
- M_building, Miyakojima, Japan
- JINS Sendai Izumi, Sendai, Japan
- O_apartment, Miyakojima, Japan
The following statistics helped Yohei Kawashima architects inc. achieve 10th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
| Featured Projects | 6 |
| Total Projects | 11 |
9. kasa architects
© kasa architects
We want to create places, not buildings. We share our clients’ ideas and wishes, discovering the joys and comforts of a new way of life. We value the qualities of a place, and we want to create rich spaces by pursuing the possibilities of architecture.
Some of kasa architects’ most prominent projects include:
- Share House Funabashi, Japan
- house in ageo, Japan
- house in kodaira, Japan
- house komoro, Komoro, Japan
- hasuda apartment, Saitama, Japan
The following statistics helped kasa architects achieve 9th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
| Featured Projects | 6 |
| Total Projects | 22 |
8. Ryuichi Sasaki Architecture
© Takumi Ota Photography
We seek to reinterpret architecture’s position within cultural practices that determine meaning, particularly within the will of epoch analysis. The investigations traverse not only conventional notions of space, enclosure and order but also the fluctuating frames that define spaces.
Some of Ryuichi Sasaki Architecture’s most prominent projects include:
- IDEAREVE IKEGAMI, Tokyo, Japan
- Yomogino Ryokan Hot Spa
- Modelia Days GOKOKUJI, Bunkyō-ku, Japan
- Modelia Brut KAGURAZAKA, Shinjuku City, Japan
- Wall Cloud, Tokyo, Japan
The following statistics helped RYUICHI SASAKI ARCHITECTURE achieve 8th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
| Featured Projects | 7 |
| Total Projects | 17 |
7. Florian Busch Architects
© Florian Busch Architects
Florian Busch Architects is an office practicing architecture, urbanism, and socio-cultural analysis. Based in Tokyo, FBA draws on a worldwide network of expert consultants, architects and engineers, accumulating several decades of experience in the ἀeld of building. Understanding architecture as the result of interactions between multiple fields, FBA, from the outset of any project, devises spatial strategies working in feedback processes with a diversity of consultants to drive the project towards solutions beyond the imagined.
Florian Busch Architectural Design Office is an office that engages in research on architecture, urban planning, society and culture. Based in Tokyo, we have a network of numerous engineers who have decades of experience and trust in the architectural world.
Some of Florian Busch Architects’ most prominent projects include:
- House in Takadanobaba, Tokyo, Japan
- House in the Forest, Hokkaido, Japan
- ‘A’ House in Kisami, Shimoda, Japan
- L House in Hirafu, Abuta District, Japan
- Nobori, Tokyo, Japan
The following statistics helped Florian Busch Architects achieve 7th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
| Featured Projects | 8 |
| Total Projects | 15 |
6. Akira Koyama + KEY OPERATION INC. / ARCHITECTS
© Akira Koyama + KEY OPERATION INC. / ARCHITECTS
Our aim is to find the simplest and most innovative space composition, construction method or other architectural technique that tackles the different problems and gives a coherent, clever, logical solution. In order to do so, we will investigate and analyze the customer’s requirements, observe the urban context, understand the social interactions, acknowledge local history, culture, regulations and natural environment and study building materials and techniques.
Some of Akira Koyama + KEY OPERATION INC. / ARCHITECTS’ most prominent projects include:
- yotsuya tenera, Tokyo, Japan
- SHINJUKU GYOEMMAE RESIDENCE (ZOOM SHINJUKU GYOEMMAE), Shinjuku City, Japan
- Sakuragicho Residence, Yokohama, Japan
- Fudomae Apartment with Six Voids, Meguro City, Japan
- House Taishido
The following statistics helped Akira Koyama + KEY OPERATION INC. / ARCHITECTS achieve 6th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
| A+Awards Winner | 2 |
| A+Awards Finalist | 3 |
| Featured Projects | 6 |
| Total Projects | 25 |
5. Hiroshi Nakamura & NAP
© Hiroshi Nakamura & NAP
Hiroshi Nakamura & NAP was established in 2002 by Hiroshi Nakamura. He believes in constructing an organic relationship between “architecture, nature, and the body” through “microscopic design” that is close to natural phenomena, people’s behavior, and emotional movements. And we aim to harmonize them with “architecture that can only be found there” based on the history, culture, industry, materials, etc. of the region. In recent years, he has found the essence of this in traditional Japanese architecture and garden culture, and is working to reconstruct them.
Some of Hiroshi Nakamura & NAP’s most prominent projects include:
- Library in the Earth, Japan
- Sayama Forest Chapel, Tokorozawa, Japan
- Ribbon Chapel, Onomichi, Japan
- Bird’s Nest Atami, Atami, Japan
- Kamikatz Public House, Tokushima, Japan
The following statistics helped Hiroshi Nakamura & NAP achieve 5th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
| A+Awards Winner | 3 |
| A+Awards Finalist | 2 |
| Featured Projects | 8 |
| Total Projects | 11 |
4. emmanuelle moureaux INC.
© emmanuelle moureaux INC.
Emmanuelle Moureaux is a French architect and artist based in Tokyo since 1996. Inspired by the layered colors of the city and traditional Japanese spatial elements such as sliding screens, she has developed the concept of shikiri — using color as a three-dimensional element to divide and create space.
Color is her signature medium. Through color, she creates architecture, installations, and artworks that shape space, rhythm, and perception. Since 2013, her ongoing “100 colors” series has transformed 100 shades of color into spatial experiences. In her work, color is not applied to surfaces as decoration, but used as a medium to create space itself.
Her notable works include sculptural entrances for Google Headquarters, architectural design for Sugamo Shinkin Bank, installations for UNIQLO and ISSEY MIYAKE and Forest of Numbers at The National Art Center, Tokyo.
Some of emmanuelle moureaux INC.’s most prominent projects include:
- Forest of Numbers, Tokyo, Japan
- Sugamo Shinkin Bank / Shimura Branch, Itabashi-ku, Japan
- 100 colors no.37, Oslo, Norway
- 100 colors no.35, Kurashiki, Japan
- Sugamo Shinkin Bank / Nakaaoki Branch, Kawaguchi, Japan
The following statistics helped emmanuelle moureaux INC. achieve 4th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
| A+Awards Winner | 2 |
| A+Awards Finalist | 3 |
| Featured Projects | 11 |
| Total Projects | 26 |
3. Nendo
© Nendo
Giving people a small “!” moment. There are so many small “!” moments hidden in our everyday. But we don’t recognize them.and even when we do recognize them, we tend to unconsciously reset our minds and forget what we’ve seen. But we believe these small “!” moments are what make our days so interesting, so rich. That’s why we want to reconstitute the everyday by collecting and reshaping them into something that’s easy to understand. We’d like the people who’ve encountered nendo’s designs to feel these small “!” moments intuitively. That’s Nendo’s job.
Some of Nendo’s most prominent projects include:
- Kaleidoscopic Ivy, Japan
- Roof and Mushrooms Pavilion, Kyoto, Japan
- Tenri Station Plaza CoFuFun, Tenri, Japan
- Stairway House, Tokyo, Japan
- kojimachi terrace, Tokyo, Japan
The following statistics helped Nendo achieve 3rd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
| Featured Projects | 13 |
| Total Projects | 17 |
2. Kengo Kuma and Associates
© Kengo Kuma and Associates
Kengo Kuma was born in 1954. He established Kengo Kuma & Associates in 1990. He is currently a University Professor and Professor Emeritus at the University of Tokyo and a member of the Japan Art Academy after teaching at Keio University and the University of Tokyo. KKAA projects are currently underway in more than 50 countries.
Kengo Kuma proposes architecture that opens up new relationships between nature, technology and human beings. His major publications include Kengo Kuma Onomatopoeia Architecture Grounding (X-Knowledge), Nihon no Kenchiku (Architecture of Japan, Iwanami Shoten), Zen Shigoto (Kengo Kuma – the complete works, Daiwa Shobo), Ten Sen Men (Point Line Plane, Iwanami Shoten), Makeru Kenchiku (Architecture of Defeat, Iwanami Shoten), Shizen na Kenchiku (Natural Architecture, Iwanami Shinsho), Chii-sana Kenchiku (Small Architecture, Iwanami Shinsho) and many others.
Some of Kengo Kuma and Associates’ most prominent projects include:
- Botanical Pavilion, Melbourne, Australia
- Teahouse in Coal Harbour, Vancouver, Canada
- V&A Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
- MASSIMODECARLO Pièce Unique, Paris, France
- Darling Square, Sydney, Australia
The following statistics helped Kengo Kuma and Associates achieve 2nd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
| A+Awards Winner | 5 |
| A+Awards Finalist | 2 |
| Featured Projects | 29 |
| Total Projects | 49 |
1. NIKKEN SEKKEI LTD
© SS Co.,Ltd.
At Nikken Sekkei, we take an integrated approach to our projects as a professional service firm. Across all in-house disciplines of architectural design: urban design, research, planning and consulting. Our teams work collaboratively to deliver better solutions for clients.
Some of NIKKEN SEKKEI LTD’s most prominent projects include:
- Showa Gakuin Elementary School West Wing, Ichikawa, Japan
- JR Kumamoto Railway Station Building, Kumamoto, Japan
- Ariake Gymnastics Centre, Tokyo, Japan
- Yamato Konan Building, Tokyo, Japan
- On the water, Nikko, Japan
- Featured image: Machida Station Area Community Hub “hatmachida”, Machida, Japan
The following statistics helped NIKKEN SEKKEI LTD achieve 1st place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Tokyo:
| A+Awards Winner | 3 |
| A+Awards Finalist | 11 |
| Featured Projects | 32 |
| Total Projects | 80 |
Why Should I Trust Architizer’s Ranking?
With more than 30,000 architecture firms and over 130,000 projects within its database, Architizer is proud to host the world’s largest online community of architects and building product manufacturers. Its celebrated A+Awards program is also the largest celebration of architecture and building products, with more than 400 jurors and hundreds of thousands of public votes helping to recognize the world’s best architecture each year.
Architizer also powers firm directories for a number of AIA (American Institute of Architects) Chapters nationwide, including the official directory of architecture firms for AIA New York.
An example of a project page on Architizer with Project Award Badges highlighted
A Guide to Project Awards
The blue “+” badge denotes that a project has won a prestigious A+Award as described above. Hovering over the badge reveals details of the award, including award category, year, and whether the project won the jury or popular choice award.
The orange Project of the Day and yellow Featured Project badges are awarded by Architizer’s Editorial team, and are selected based on a number of factors. The following factors increase a project’s likelihood of being featured or awarded Project of the Day status:
- Project completed within the last 3 years
- A well written, concise project description of at least 3 paragraphs
- Architectural design with a high level of both functional and aesthetic value
- High quality, in focus photographs
- At least 8 photographs of both the interior and exterior of the building
- Inclusion of architectural drawings and renderings
- Inclusion of construction photographs
There are 7 Projects of the Day each week and a further 31 Featured Projects. Each Project of the Day is published on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Stories, while each Featured Project is published on Facebook. Each Project of the Day also features in Architizer’s Weekly Projects Newsletter and shared with 170,000 subscribers.
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