The Nakagin Capsule Tower

The Nakagin Capsule Tower was a residential and office building designed by architect Kisho Kurokawa and completed in 1972 in Tokyo, Japan.

What is the tower made of?

The two interconnected towers were made of concrete and was built of 140 prefabricated steel modules bolted onto the main shafts.

The Tower is an example of Japanese Metabolism

Japanese Metabolism is a movement in Japanese architecture that sought to combine the principles of organic growth and flexibility with the technology of the time.

How many capsules did the tower consist of?

The tower consisted of 140 prefabricated capsules that are attached to a central core, allowing the capsules to be replaced or removed as needed.

What was the purpose of these capsules?

The capsules are small, self-contained units that can be used for living, working, or both.

What fits in a capsule?

Each capsule measures about 2.6 meters by 4 meters and contains a bed, desk, and storage space.

Was there any criticism?

Yes, the tower faced criticism for its cramped living conditions and the fact that many of the capsules have been left unused or abandoned.

Does the tower still exist?

Unfortunately, much of the concrete and steel tower has fallen into disrepair and has been under threat of demolition since 2007. The demolition of the tower began on April 12, 2022.

What happened with the capsules?

After the tower was disassembled, the capsules were donated to museums or turned into rental units.