Morinaga’s New Headquarters: Why It Became a Model for Architects and Investors

Location: Morinaga’s New Headquarters, Minato Ward, Tokyo, Japan

Function: Office building for a food company, known as Morinaga Shibaura: Smart & Sustainable Office in Tokyo.

Completion Year: 2024

Built Area: 2,046.67 m²

Total Floor Area: 15,611.21 m²

Floors: 7 above ground + 1 basement level

Structure: Steel frame with wooden elements and a seismic-resistant concrete base

Architect: Shigenori Suzuki

Developer/Builder: Takenaka Corporation

Owner: Morinaga Co., Ltd.

Sustainability at the Core of the Design

Morinaga Shibaura is a holistic example of sustainable design in modern architecture. Inspired by natural forest systems, it creates a healthier, more sustainable work environment. This embodies what Morinaga Shibaura: Smart & Sustainable Office in Tokyo aims to achieve.
For instance, carefully selected trees were planted based on an environmental analysis of Tokyo’s climate to attract migratory birds. In addition, local timber was used for façades and interior design—planted and harvested by the company’s employees.
Moreover, the building features a reflective glass façade that reduces heat and guides sunlight, while also functioning as a wind trap for natural ventilation.

Interior Design: A Fusion of Nature and Technology

:The interior layout mirrors the layers of a fore

Ground and first floors represent the forest floor, designed to encourage interaction between the company and the public.

Upper floors resemble treetops, where light and shadow shift throughout the day to reduce eye strain.

The rooftop and seventh floor include wellness spaces such as an herb and fruit garden, a small farm, and a 100-meter walking track. The unique design elements contribute to Morinaga Shibaura: Smart & Sustainable Office in Tokyo.

Smart and Eco-Friendly Technology: ZEB Ready

In alignment with its carbon reduction goals, the building aims for ZEB Ready certification.
To achieve this, several intelligent systems were integrated, including:

An outdoor lighting system that adjusts based on temperature.

A dynamic indoor lighting setup that responds to wind speed to maintain a comfortable atmosphere.

Morinaga Shibaura Is Recognized as a Model Architectural Project

This project demonstrates a deep understanding of the relationship between humans and their environment. Furthermore, it successfully bridges traditional Japanese values with global architectural innovation.
Most importantly, it prioritizes both the mental and physical well-being of employees. Notably, Morinaga Shibaura: Smart & Sustainable Office in Tokyo was awarded the Good Design Award 2024 in the office buildings category.

Takenaka Corporation’s Role in Realising the Vision

With its extensive experience in sustainable architecture, Takenaka Corporation brought Morinaga’s vision to life — proving that smart design can truly balance people, nature, and innovation. The result is a high-quality architectural achievement that merges technology, nature, and structural excellence.

A Wider Impact on Society and Investment Trends

Beyond its architectural value, the Morinaga Shibaura Building is influencing broader trends in both workplace design and sustainable investment. By prioritising employee well-being and environmental responsibility, it sets a benchmark for future urban developments. The integration of nature and technology creates a blueprint for human-centred architecture that appeals to both modern employees and forward-thinking investors.

Additionally, the project encourages the use of loc economies while reducing carbon impact. These features make it not only an architectural achievement but also a socio-economic model aligned with the principles of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) investment strategies.

Beyond Office Architecture

The Morinaga Shibaura Building stands as living proof that architecture can drive real environmental and social change. By reimagining the office as a “smart forest,” the design replaces conventional spaces with a living ecosystem—where nature is not a decorative element, but a core component of how people work, interact, and thrive.

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For more outstanding buildings, visit: Building Unique Structures on Irregular Plots