THE AESTHETIC TRANSPARENT MALL IN TOKYO BY OMA

The aesthetic new landmark that shifted ground in Harajuku, Tokyo is a luxury shopping mall that was initially opened in the year 1988, it’s a facility that was hosting fashion stores, cafes, and restaurants before it was closed in 2021. Now, the Harajuku Quest Mall as it’s called is currently being renovated as a new landmark for the region and it’s scheduled to be completed in 2025 according to Designboom website, as written by Christina Petridou.

Directly opposite a street known as Omotesando, the zelkova tree-lined avenue which is considered one of the greatest ‘architectural exploit’ streets in the world is the eye catch of the region. The aesthetic building structure appears to shift its shape based on the way the viewer sees it, following the level of glazing that wraps the intricate facade. The exclusive project Harajuku Quest Mall stands as a bridge between Omotesando and Oku-Harajuku area as it spans six floors above ground and one below. The upper floors enjoy exclusive views opening towards the Meiji Jingu Shrine, Yoyogi Park, and Omotesando’s zelkova trees, with spacious terraces blurring the boundaries between in and out.  

According to the architects, as quoted by Designboom website, the new ‘Harajuku Quest’ will attract diverse tenants who seek exclusive Harajuku culture. ‘We aim to generate a stimulating commercial facility where visitors can come into contact with a variety of creative ideas.’