‘sugamo shinkin bank’ by emmanuelle moureaux architecture + design, tokyo, japan images courtesy of emmanuelle moureaux architecture + design / nacasa & partners inc.

japanese practice emmanuelle moureaux architecture + design has completed ‘sugamo shinkin bank’, a credit union located in shimura, japan. the design, an offset volume of rainbow-like layers, is the third branch designed by moureaux, with the first two located in tokiwadai and niiza.

overall view

stacked slabs in twelve saturated colors dominate the exterior facade and contrast the stark white panels that enclose the building. looking to create a refreshing atmosphere with a palpable sense of nature, the colors gently transition until they disappear into the sky. softly reflected onto the white surfaces, the hues create a warm and diffused exterior which provide a sense of ease and solitude. at night, the layers are faintly illuminated, varying in accordance to weather and the season.

(left) entrance (right) detail

side elevation

upon entering the building, three elliptical skylights bathe the interior in a soft light. penetrating through

each of the three levels, the clear, curving tubes carry light through them, introducing natural light into the

depths of the structure while integrating interior and exterior environments.

waiting area

on the main floor where the bank machines and teller windows are located, simple motifs and brightly colored

furniture act as a connection to the characteristics evident on the exterior of the structure.

bank machines and teller windows on the main floor

lobby and detail of light well

detail of glass tubes

light wells on the second floor

meeting rooms and offices surround the skylights on the second floor

offices

front facade at night

night view

floor plan / level 0

floor plan / level 1

floor plan / level 2

section

section

construction of slabs

structure

construction of the glass light wells

models

color swatches