In the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, an architectural marvel rises in the form of the 2,000-square-foot Akasaka Morandi I apartment. This project, a collaboration between the esteemed APOLLO Architects & Associates and designer Nicola Gallizia, redefines the role of storage systems in residential design. Typically relegated to the background, cabinetry and storage are elevated to become the centerpiece of the space, offering an inspiring take on how everyday functional elements can serve as the architectural backbone of a home.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Architect: APOLLO Architects & Associates
Designer: Nicola Gallizia
Location: Tokyo
At the heart of the apartment’s design are storage modules, often the hallmark of the renowned Molteni brand. In this context, they transcend their traditional purpose to serve as the primary architectural element that dictates the apartment’s aesthetic and spatial dynamics. These modules demonstrate an ingenious blend of function and form, acting simultaneously as exhibition space, room dividers, and circulation pathways, setting the stage for a dynamic and theatrical experience upon entry. The designers adeptly use these storage units to create a gallery wall effect while delineating spaces, resulting in a passage that guides visitors from public to private areas with a narrative progression akin to a choreography of space.
Materiality plays a crucial role in accentuating this dual function. Natural oak doors offer a warm and inviting base for showcasing items, while contrasting dark oak ceiling panels provide a striking frame that enhances the overall visual composition. This juxtaposition not only delineates but also unifies the space, reflecting a harmonious balance between exhibition and habitation. The movement created along these storage modules mimics traditional Japanese architectural elements, particularly the elegant transitions facilitated by shoji screens and paper dividers, creating a cultural nexus between Italian design sensibilities and Japanese spatial philosophies.
Further enhancing these design elements are the carefully selected materials that inject subtle luxury into the apartment. Brass accents strategically highlight art pieces and lighting fixtures against the minimalist wood palette, ensuring that each element is both seen and felt. The wet areas of the apartment are adorned with silver travertine and Ceppo stone-patterned ceramic tiles, infusing the space with an Italian aura of refined luxury. This choice of materials amplifies the sense of restrained opulence, ensuring that the overall tranquility of the space remains undisturbed.
This innovative approach challenges conventional notions where storage was often camouflaged within architecture. Here, it is celebrated for its functionality, asserting its presence as a vital architectural component. The project illustrates a reflective exploration of how everyday elements, when thoughtfully integrated, can redefine and elevate a space’s identity. The Akasaka Morandi I apartment not only bridges cultural design narratives but also offers a compelling vision for contemporary living spaces, where functionality and aesthetics are inextricably intertwined.
Ultimately, the Akasaka Morandi I apartment exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to residential design, one that embraces the possibilities of functional elements as core design features. This architectural intervention offers insights into future urban living, where space is a premium, and multifunctionality becomes key. By transforming storage into an art form, this project sets a precedent for how architecture can rise above the mundane, crafting environments that are both practical and profoundly beautiful.
