Background

Nakagin Capsule Tower, a true representative of the architectural movement known as “metabolism,”* boasts the unique capability of adding capsules (rooms) at any time. Short-listed as a World Heritage site by ICOMOS and DOCOMOMO, this iconic structure now risks demolition by the landowner. *The “metabolism” was a post-war Japanese architectural movement that fused ideas about architectural megastructures with those of organic biological growth. Just as old cells are replaced with new cells, it was envisaged that the old and out-of-function units would be replaced with new units in order to respond to the growth and change of society.

Describe the creative idea (40% of vote)

As part of the Nakagin preservation movement, we converted business cards into a thought-provoking communication tool enabling firsthand experience of the unique identity of this “metabolism structure.” Depicting a different lifestyle in each capsule window, we expressed the spirit of Nakagin Capsule Tower born from the lives of its residents.Rearranging the cards as capsule apartments promotes understanding of this treasured edifice and encourages others to join in its preservation.

Describe the execution (40% of vote)

This business card is used on a daily basis by the Nakagin preservation movement to convey the appeal of the Nakagin Capsule Tower Building to a large number of people.

List the results (20% of vote)

Rearranging the cards as capsule apartments promotes understanding of this treasured edifice and encourages others to join in its preservation.