A Tour of Indeed’s Biophilic Tokyo Office

Architecture firm Specht Architects has recently completed a new office design for the world’s largest job site Indeed in Tokyo, Japan.

“Indeed’s new office in the quickly growing Azabu district of Tokyo reflects the company’s unique strategy—to provide work environments that incorporate the most up-to-date thinking possible, while also integrating the character of the specific place where the office is located. This office has all the amenities expected in a modern tech office, including lounges, coffee bars, game rooms, and the latest in AV and connectivity. But it also has a material and formal connection to traditional elements of Japanese culture without resorting to literal interpretations or kitsch.

The overall workspace is large, but punctuated by a series of “oasis” elements—small, serene work and relaxation areas that are defined by lots of landscaping, gentle lighting, and color. These oasis spaces and nearby breakout areas are bounded by brightly colored custom murals that are also derived from traditional Japanese art and graphic motifs. Together they provide a linked path of bright and comfortable places that flow through the entire office. In addition to the plants and murals, other locally-sourced materials are prevalent, including tatami-mat inspired floor and terrace surfaces, Japanese cedar and cypress finishes, and paper lighting fixtures.

Common paper tubes are also used for divider screens in the main gathering spaces and as ceiling textures in the oasis spaces. The effect is modern and tech-oriented while avoiding the sterile and placeless environments often found in these types of offices,” says Specht Architects

• Location: Azuba District – Tokyo, Japan
• Date completed: 2019
• Design: Specht Architects