Born from a close collaboration between Spotify and design teams, the project is grounded in a vision to expand what a workplace can be: a creative, inclusive, and dynamic space rooted in Tokyo’s cultural identity. Located in Shibuya, a hub for music and artistic exchange, the space responds to its environment by acting as both a beacon and a platform for local and global creative communities.

At the core of the concept is “Disrupting the Beat”, a design narrative that fuses rhythm, art, and materiality. Rather than follow expected office typologies, the space disrupts conventions, guiding visitors through sensory transitions that echo the musicality of Spotify’s mission.

The entrance acts as a liminal zone, drawing from Japanese architectural traditions while using lighting to symbolically and physically reset the pace—ushering visitors into a more intentional and expressive interior.

Moving into the space, murals by local underground artists frame an adaptable stage area. These works, curated through a collaborative process but driven by the artist, reflect movement, musical heritage, and Tokyo’s artistic subcultures. The stage itself is multifunctional—supporting performances, talks, and community events—making it a vital node for creative interaction.

A standout feature is the ‘Listening Room’, engineered for optimal acoustic experience and emotional resonance. It includes sound treatments custom-designed by Spotify combined with a responsive lighting feature, enabling artists to hear and feel their work in an immersive setting.

At the heart of the office lies the Podcast Studio, a fully-equipped production space with a minimalist, customizable aesthetic. It empowers creators to adapt the space to their unique style while maintaining top-tier recording standards, built within the physical constraints of the building.

Flexible workspaces and meeting rooms are designed with a human-centric approach, accommodating both formal and informal collaboration. Each room is embedded with curated artworks from both Japanese and international artists, highlighting Spotify’s global reach while celebrating local talent.

Staff areas balance energy and calm. Spaces include a quiet room for reflection, a multifunctional lounge for discussions or karaoke, and diverse working areas to support individual and team needs. Every area is thoughtfully detailed—subtle material choices and art references reflect Spotify’s identity without overwhelming users.

The project’s eco-social impact lies in its local-first approach—partnering with Japanese artists, drawing from cultural design vernaculars, and creating a long-term home for creative work and community interaction. By embedding flexibility, emotional intelligence, and cultural context into every corner, Spotify Tokyo becomes more than a workplace: it is an instrument of social and creative resonance.