Images by OMA & NTT Urban Development Corporation
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 was renovated as a new landmark for the region and it was completed last year.
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.’
Lush greenery spreads throughout the facility, interacting in harmony with the zelkova trees
Omotesando has established its identity with zelkova trees and wide sidewalks – Image © NTT Urban Development Corporation
A shape shifting facade that emphasizes transparency – Image © NTT Urban Development Corporation
The landscape is reminiscent of a continuous stratum from the Meiji Jingu Shrine – Image © NTT Urban Development Corporation
A passage directed to the Oku-Harajuku increases mobility and fosters interaction – Image © NTT Urban Development Corporation
Concept Diagram – Image courtesy OMA
Section Diagram – Image courtesy OMA
Concept Diagram – Image courtesy OMA
Concept Diagram – Image courtesy OMA
Project Info:
Name: Harajuku Quest
Architects: OMA
In Charge Architect: Shohei Shigematsu
Landscape Design: Tatsuya Hiraga of Landscape Plus Co., Ltd
Location: Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Site Area: Approx. 1,960sqm
Total Floor Area: Approx. 7,800sqm
Client: NTT Urban Development