{"id":290530,"date":"2026-01-20T14:27:07","date_gmt":"2026-01-20T05:27:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.adfwebmagazine.jp\/?p=290530"},"modified":"2026-01-20T14:27:07","modified_gmt":"2026-01-20T05:27:07","slug":"symbolplus-office-tokyo-hybrid-workspace","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.adfwebmagazine.jp\/en\/design\/symbolplus-office-tokyo-hybrid-workspace\/","title":{"rendered":"SYMBOLPLUS OFFICE | A Timber Office Renovation in Tokyo Explores the Role of the Workplace in the Hybrid Era"},"content":{"rendered":"

Proposing spaces that pursue continuity between architecture and time through natural materials and reuse<\/h3>\r\n

P<\/span>YMBOLPLUS<\/a> has completed the renovation of its own workspace, SYMBOLPLUS OFFICE, located in a timber building in Suginami, Tokyo. Designed by the studio itself, which works across architecture, interiors, and spatial strategy, the project reconsiders the role of the office in the hybrid work era by embracing natural materials, reuse, and architectural restraint.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

\"adf-web-magazine-symbolplus-office-13\"<\/a>

Reception room with the revolving shoji screens planned in the vaulted ceiling.
\r\nPhoto credit:
\r\nKeishin Horikoshi<\/p><\/div>\r\n\r\n

The building is owned by architect Akio Hayashi, whose long-standing advocacy for natural materials became the foundation of the design. With a clear directive to avoid synthetic elements and reuse existing components, the project focuses not on visual impact but on continuity\u2014between architecture, material, and time. The design retains as much of the original timber structure as possible. New insertions follow the rhythm, proportions, and warmth of the existing building, allowing old and new elements to coexist without friction. The office is conceived as a quiet working environment shaped by its architectural context.<\/p>\r\n

Material as Memory<\/h4>\r\n

This attitude is reinforced by material choices. Red earth from Ishikawa was applied as layered plaster by skilled artisans, with its tone adjusted to harmonize with the timber structure. Shoji partitions were made from reclaimed Tosa washi that had been slated for disposal. Since the paper was too thin for architectural use, it was layered to achieve the necessary strength and translucency. These shoji serve as flexible partitions, allowing the space to shift between openness and privacy. In meeting areas, they conceal shelving and equipment when needed, maintaining visual calm while preserving function.<\/p>\r\n\n\t\t