TOKYO SPACE SPECULATION - RESEARCH REPORT N°1
The Roppongi Core project focuses on three controversial aspects of Roppongi: Firstly, Roppongi presents itself as a crucial sub-center in Tokyo despite its lack of necessary mobility connections which are the criteria for a sub-center: It only has two secondary metro stops; it does not have a direct connection to the Yamanote line; and it does not have any JR line stops. In general, Roppongi’s central programmatic concentration cannot integrate itself into the contemporary sub-center morphology of Tokyo. Secondly, Roppongi’s population is characterized by a socio-economic diversity, ranging from the inner city traditional Japanese inhabitant to the wealthier foreigners living in the area. Each ethnic group has its visible effects on the spatial organization, creating an architectural and social pluralism. Thirdly, Roppongi’s new developments are very controversial. The large scale mixed use projects, such as Tokyo Midtown and Roppongi Hills, do not only destroy the traditional urban tissue but also disturb the urban context with their over-sized dimensions and their gated communities. Nonetheless, these urban developments attempt to create a positive reputation of Roppongi by introducing new and contemporary shopping facilities, as well as cultural and leisure activities.
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The Roppongi Core proposes an urban development based on multiple scales that challenges these three controversial aspects of Roppongi. The project is divided into three parts, each referring to a specific scale and the communicating urban theme: transport infrastructure, urban contextualization and architectural icon. Concerning the transport aspect, the project proposes to integrate the present elevated highway infrastructure, connecting Ginza and Shibuya, into a JR line that travels from the suburbs into the center via Roppongi. For the urban contextualization, the Roppongi train station will be developed as a core element within the district and will house multiple programs and amenities. Finally, an architectural icon is achieved by elevating the new structure above the existing urban tissue while securing several connections with the ground level and viaduct.