Main author
Michael BrooksNakagin Capsule Tower
The Nakagin Capsule Tower in Tokyo, Japan is a 14-storey tower consisting of 140 individual capsule units. Designed by the architect Kurokawa Kisho and constructed in 1972, the tower was intended to serve as a prototype for a new type of functional urban accommodation, and is seen as one of the foremost examples of the metabolist architecture movement that developed in post-war Japan.
The idea behind metabolism was that buildings developed, apparently organically, in response to their environment, with the ability to be adaptable. This idea was evident in the minimalist design of the Nakagin Capsule Tower in which individual capsules that were manufactured offsite were attached to two interconnected concrete towers. The capsules could be replaced and modified as required, with mixed use functionality including living and office space.
Unfortunately, like many ‘flexible’ buildings, this adaptability was never used. Despite the original intention, none of the capsules were ever replaced and the tower eventually fell into disrepair. In recent years it has faced threats of demolition as renovation plans have failed, although it has started opening for access to tourists through sites such as Airbnb.
Despite setbacks, the tower remains a striking futurist design for urban living and the world’s first example of capsule architecture.
[edit] 2021 update
The Nakagin Capsule Tower was sold to the landowner in 2021. Its fate continues to be in jeopardy, due to structural issues related to seismic requirements.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- 30 St. Mary Axe.
- Architectural styles.
- Building of the week series.
- Fuji TV Building, Tokyo.
- Gate Tower Building, Osaka.
- Geodesic dome.
- Habitat 67.
- Megastructure..
- Metabolism.
- Ministry of Transportation Building, Georgia.
- Robot Building, Bangkok.
- Skyscraper.
- Tallest buildings in the world.
- The Bierpinsel, Berlin.
- The history of fabric structures.
- Trellick Tower.
- Unusual building design of the week series.
[edit] External references
- Pingmag - Nakagin Capsule Tower
Featured articles and news
BSRIA Sentinel Clerk of Works Training Case Study
Strengthening expertise to enhance service delivery with integrated cutting-edge industry knowledge.
Impact report from the Supply Chain Sustainability School
Free sustainability skills, training and support delivered to thousands of UK companies to help cut carbon.
The Building Safety Forum at the Installershow 2025
With speakers confirmed for 24 June as part of Building Safety Week.
The UK’s largest air pollution campaign.
Future Homes Standard, now includes solar, but what else?
Will the new standard, due to in the Autumn, go far enough in terms of performance ?
BSRIA Briefing: Cleaner Air, Better tomorrow
A look back at issues relating to inside and outside air quality, discussed during the BSRIA briefing in 2023.
Restoring Abbotsford's hothouse
Bringing the writer Walter Scott's garden to life.
Reflections on the spending review with CIAT.
Retired firefighter cycles world to raise Grenfell funds
Leaving on 14 June 2025 Stephen will raise money for youth and schools through the Grenfell Foundation.
Key points for construction at a glance with industry reactions.
Functionality, visibility and sustainability
The simpler approach to specification.
Architects, architecture, buildings, and inspiration in film
The close ties between makers and the movies, with our long list of suggested viewing.
SELECT three-point plan for action issued to MSPs
Call for Scottish regulation, green skills and recognition of electrotechnical industry as part of a manifesto for Scottish Parliamentary elections.
UCEM becomes the University of the Built Environment
Major milestone in its 106-year history, follows recent merger with London School of Architecture (LSE).
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.
A people-first approach to retrofit
Moving away from the destructive paradigm of fabric-first.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.