LOFFT: A Renewal of the Dai-ichi Life Building
(Featured in Shinkenchiku, October Issue) 

A Harmonious Office: The Coexistence of "Work" and "Rest," "Past" and "Present"

The former Dai-ichi Life Insurance Company main building, completed in 1938, remains a rare architectural masterpiece whose timeless elegance has been preserved through successive renovations. The existing finishes and intricate details reflect a high level of design literacy, creating a space steeped in history. In transforming this building into a new environment where "work" and "rest" coexist, we sought to maximise the inherent value of the space, incorporating features such as ceiling grilles that double as air outlets, parquet flooring, and the views from its windows.

The monotonous single-floor cafeteria was reimagined as a park-like space where people can eat, work, and enjoy conversations at their leisure. By conceptualising the entire floor as a miniature city, we proposed diverse spatial arrangements to accommodate various uses and activities.

The primary circulation path from the elevator hall to the cafeteria was designed as an authentic, wood-clad library, echoing the aesthetic of the building's common areas. Flanking this central path, kitchens and convenience stores finished with light green tiles were introduced to create a sharp contrast between the substantiality of the existing elements and the new spaces, enhancing visibility and accessibility.

A botanical garden atrium, filled with plants and natural light, was established as a gateway to shift the mindset from a "workplace" to a "place of rest." Encased with glass and frames, this greenhouse-like space refines existing skylights and open voids to provide a comfortable and restorative atmosphere.

The expansive cafeteria area was divided into four thematic zones—Park Office, Café Terrace, Bar, and Ground Terrace. By intentionally avoiding clear pathways, the design introduced a variety of spatial scenarios reminiscent of urban settings, such as open terrace seating facing a park or park benches. These diverse spaces were constructed using undulating floor levels, thoughtfully arranged furniture, and dynamic lighting to evoke the feel of a landscape.

To achieve a rhythmic yet gentle connection between zones, suspended walls and distinct flooring patterns were strategically employed. This approach transformed the over 1,000 m² space into an open and flexible environment that embraces multiple uses, much like a public park.

By honouring the value of the existing structure and reinterpreting it into a fresh design, the renovation serves as a bridge to future generations. This approach not only aligns with the method of revitalising historically significant architecture but also embodies the concept of well-being, creating a sustainable and fulfilling environment for its users.