Hermès Ginza

architechu

Transparency of 45x45

Renzo Piano, an architect well known in Korea. Long ago, the KT Building in Gwanghwamun introduced his debut in Korea, but since it is an office building with restricted access, his popularity is not very high among the general public. However, his designs are always transparent, so it is easy to recognize his work.

He is a world-renowned architect who won the "Pritzker Prize" in 1998, considered the Nobel Prize of architecture. He is also known for designing the Pompidou Center in Paris with the well-known architect Richard Rogers through the "DaeHyunDaeSeoul" space.

His spaces can be summarized in a few points: "lightness, transparency, light."

These three elements are the most important factors he considers in designing spaces, and like Richard Rogers, he is famous for his "high-tech architecture." Today's spaces, as can be seen in photos, reflect his beliefs well, serving as commercial and artistic spaces. MASION HERMES in Ginza, Tokyo, is a building surrounded by glass blocks measuring 45cm * 45cm. This space communicates visually with the city through the penetration of light day and night. From the inside, one can see the movements outside as shadows, and from the outside, one can see the movements inside as shadows. Moreover, because the facade is surrounded by transparent blocks, it becomes a giant lighthouse illuminating the city like a torch at night.

Although a building surrounded by glass blocks may seem light and fragile, not like a building, he implemented the internal structure and environmental system well, reflecting his preference for high-tech architecture. Especially in a country like Japan where earthquakes occur frequently, seismic design was considered an important aspect. [The structure may have been solved by an architecture company. Japan has many skillful structural design companies.]

Today's space is a space that communicates with the city through these transparent glass blocks. Furthermore, as a commercial space and the headquarters of Hermes Japan, this space also communicates with the local community as a cultural space. An art gallery is located on the 8th floor of the building, showcasing exhibitions sponsored by the Hermes Foundation featuring the works of today's popular artists and experimental exhibitions like the building.

In particular, the space where light seeps through the glass blocks may not be considered an ideal environment for an art gallery, but the unique atmosphere created by the space provides a special enjoyment where artworks are presented in a new light. The sight of people walking through the glass block backgrounds while viewing art becomes another form of art.

Through him, the space evokes new emotions.

The transparent space created by the seemingly impossible light 45cm glass blocks allowing light into the interior creates a very alien and interesting experience. Perhaps this is a space that is not easy to come by in Korea.

This transparent place created by 45cm glass blocks is Hermes Ginza.

📍Location | 5 Chome-4-1 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061, Japan
⏰Hours | 11-19
💴Art Gallery Admission | Free

🧔🏻Design | RPBW [Renzo Piano Building Workshop]