This design took inspiration from Osaka’s iconic waterways. A central river wends its way through the space; wayfinding is intuitive. It flows from reception, past principal destinations on either bank, with simple suspended zigzag strip lighting leading the eye to the river’s final destination, the ‘Red Dot’ room, with its cheerful greeting of “Konnichiwa!”. 

The river is both a means of connection and tech ability, with a digital kiosk and signage. The stream metaphor is a conduit to encourage and maintain social links: one side client-facing, the other for employees. In this way, the river satisfies Microsoft’s commitment to supporting accessibility, and technology, and facilitating employees working “alone and together”. Osaka’s waterways illuminate the city’s evolution, from ancient foundations, through the economic metropolis, to a cultural nexus and cosmopolitan playground. Façades along the Microsoft river are clad in a variety of locally found, sustainable textural materials: Japanese cedar, rusticated stone, and polished concrete. 

Microsoft’s commitment to a sustainable future is achieved with a fully-recycled flooring stretching the whole length of the river and strategically re-used furniture. A nap room, medical room, lactation room, and generous array of biophilic elements, including three living walls and an abundance of interior planting, are a true commitment to the wellbeing and care for all people. Osaka at night inspires a vivid chromaticity. The hub space takes inspiration from the city’s neon verticality, mirrored and shimmering in the waterways below. There is a nod to Tadao Ando here. This atomized reflection has also inspired a community-created artwork within The Hub. 

Members of Osaka’s special needs community, together with a local artist, have created a bespoke installation from timber reclaimed and repurposed from nearby housing demolition. This collaboration has added a very human touch and generated jobs, as well as an increased awareness of and pride in community inclusivity. The river and both banks are fully accessible to all – a priority for Microsoft - who are on the leading edge towards inclusive workspaces globally. The design incorporates an array of accessible elements, including braille signage, high contrast patterns, hazard warnings at stairs, adjustable-height workstations, and universal wheelchair access. 

Through innovation and subtle referencing, this design honors Microsoft’s desire to celebrate the local culture without resorting to pastiche.