Architectural Cases

The NTT Hibiya Tower marks a significant stride in modern urban development, serving as a beacon of innovation and sustainable design. This monumental structure, the first of four planned for the Tokyo Cross Park masterplan, embodies a forward-thinking approach to integrating advanced technology with a bustling metropolitan landscape. It represents a paradigm shift in how corporate headquarters can serve not only as functional workspaces but also as dynamic centers of community and technological advancement.

PLP Architecture Breaks Ground on First Tower of Tokyo Cross Park: A Vision for Future Urban Living

On December 5, 2025, PLP Architecture, in collaboration with NTT Urban Development and Tokyo Electric Power Company, proudly announced the groundbreaking of the NTT Hibiya Tower. This event signals the beginning of a transformative journey for Tokyo's urban fabric. The tower, soaring to an impressive 230 meters and encompassing 361,000 square meters, is a mixed-use marvel destined to be the global headquarters for NTT, Japan's leading technology corporation.

As the central pillar of the 1.1-million-square-meter Tokyo Cross Park Vision masterplan, the NTT Hibiya Tower showcases PLP Architecture's expertise not only as the design architect but also as the visionary masterplanner and placemaking strategist for the entire development. This expansive project is set to redefine the capital's skyline and its functional urban spaces.

A core element of the NTT Hibiya Tower is the integration of IOWN (Innovative Optical and Wireless Network), a groundbreaking digital infrastructure initiative spearheaded by NTT. This technology leverages optical communication to facilitate high-capacity data transmission while drastically reducing latency and energy consumption. IOWN represents a leap towards next-generation communication networks, transitioning from electronic to optical processes to enhance data transfer efficiency.

The tower's design incorporates IOWN to power intelligent building systems and responsive digital environments. This allows for unparalleled adaptability in lighting, climate control, and spatial configurations, catering to evolving work patterns and activities. With approximately 150,000 square meters dedicated to flexible workspaces, the tower champions distributed working practices, fostering collaboration across diverse locations through seamless digital connectivity.

Beyond its corporate functions, the NTT Hibiya Tower is designed with a strong public interface. The three-story Cross Gate on the ground level offers a versatile space for events and daily activities, featuring adaptable interior surfaces for visual displays. Floors 7 to 10 host an innovation hub, bringing together experts from various fields, including urban development, information and communication technologies, and energy, to foster groundbreaking advancements.

A notable feature is the 400-seat cultural hall on Level 9, poised to host live events with panoramic views of Hibiya Park. This hall integrates reclaimed materials from the former NTT building, embodying a commitment to sustainability and heritage. It also facilitates live connections with venues across Japan, promoting cultural exchange and collaboration.

The project prioritizes environmental stewardship, adhering to stringent building performance and material selection criteria. Office areas are projected to achieve "ZEB Ready" standards, aiming for over 50 percent energy reduction compared to conventional office buildings. The construction incorporates recycled aluminum, low-carbon concrete, and electric arc furnace steel, while exploring advanced building management technologies and lower-emission energy sources like hydrogen.

The NTT Hibiya Tower represents more than just a building; it is a living prototype for smart cities, demonstrating how innovative design, advanced technology, and environmental responsibility can converge to create future-proof urban environments.

The redesign of the nice rice Xinle Road store represents a significant architectural endeavor, aimed at revitalizing the brand's foundational location. As the original point of inception for a brand that has expanded extensively across the nation, this project sought to reinforce its core identity. The architectural vision centered on transforming the space into an inviting “rice house,” emphasizing warmth and a sense of community. This conceptual approach aimed to create an environment where customers could feel a deep connection to the brand's origins.

The store's renewal involved a thoughtful consideration of its historical significance while integrating contemporary design principles. The emphasis was placed on crafting a space that not only serves commercial functions but also resonates with the brand’s ethos. The design elements and material choices contributed to an atmosphere that feels both modern and deeply rooted in tradition, providing a harmonious blend of old and new. This careful balance ensures that the store functions as a contemporary retail space while honoring its heritage as the brand’s birthplace.

Ultimately, this architectural reimagining illustrates a commitment to evolving with the times while preserving intrinsic values. The updated nice rice Xinle Road Concept Store stands as a testament to how design can bridge the past and present, offering a unique and engaging experience for its patrons. It demonstrates that by revisiting one's origins with a fresh perspective, a brand can achieve renewed relevance and deeper resonance with its audience.

This innovative approach to retail architecture fosters a sense of place and authenticity, creating environments that are both functional and emotionally resonant. It encourages a deeper connection between brands and their consumers by emphasizing shared values and experiences, leading to more meaningful interactions and lasting impressions in the modern marketplace.