Fukoku Tower by Dominique Perrault Architecture; photo © Daici Ano

Inspired by ‘a gigantic tree whose roots proliferate on the surface of the ground’, this reflective glass-clad office building was completed in 2010 by a renowned Parisian architectural practice Dominique Perrault Architecture. Located in Osaka, Japan, the 28-storey tower was developed for Fukoku Mutual Life Insurance Company and apart from the office space, the high-rise also encompasses additional facilities such as university laboratory, underground car park and a 4.900-square-meters commercial area.

Fukoku Tower by Dominique Perrault Architecture; photo © Daici Ano

More about the project:

‘This tower project for the Fukoku insurance company takes inspiration from the profile of a gigantic tree whose roots proliferate on the surface of the ground. Splayed at its base, the tower’s outline tapers elegantly as it rises, gracing the city’s skyline with a vertical asymptote. The contrast between the structure’s base and upper regions is accentuated by the treatment of the building’s “bark”.

‘Broad “wood chips” on the lower levels gradually give way to a sleek wall. The glass facade is worked into a crescendo of encrusted mirrors at the base, reflecting the colors of the sky and the surrounding environment. Situated at the exit of Osaka’s main train station, the building will become a lasting landmark in the urban landscape.’

Fukoku Tower by Dominique Perrault Architecture; photo © Daici Ano

Fukoku Tower by Dominique Perrault Architecture; photo © Daici Ano

Fukoku Tower by Dominique Perrault Architecture; photo © Daici Ano

Fukoku Tower by Dominique Perrault Architecture; photo © Daici Ano

Fukoku Tower by Dominique Perrault Architecture; photo © Daici Ano

Fukoku Tower by Dominique Perrault Architecture; photo © Daici Ano

Fukoku Tower by Dominique Perrault Architecture; photo © Daici Ano

view the Fukoku Tower project on Architonic

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