Heatherwick Studio’s new district, Azabudai Hills, located in the heart of Tokyo, has recently been unveiled by the Japanese Prime Minister. This project marks the culmination of a 30-year revitalization plan. Spanning 2.4 hectares, the block integrates accessible green spaces and multifunctional activity venues, seamlessly blending urban life with nature.
The development includes residential buildings, shops, restaurants, galleries, offices, two temples, a school, and retail spaces. Heatherwick Studio is responsible for designing the podium building and public areas within this 8.1-hectare site, which is lushly landscaped with trees, flowers, and water features. The design encourages meaningful interactions among commuters, residents, and visitors, featuring walkable rooftop slopes and winding paths ideal for informal gatherings and exploration.
Tokyo’s architectural landscape is defined by its grand scale and stylistic diversity, sharply contrasting old and new structures. This project honors the city’s dynamic character and complex history. Key features include a central plaza, expansive public gardens, and elevated “cloud” activity spaces—all designed to invite residents and tourists alike to gather, interact, and find inspiration. As one of Tokyo’s greenest urban districts, Azabudai Hills strikes a thoughtful balance between urban development and nature.
The project is led by Mori Building Co. Ltd, a prominent Japanese developer, who worked closely with over 300 residents and businesses throughout the 30-year redevelopment. Impressively, more than 90% of the original tenants and businesses have chosen to return to the revitalized neighborhood. The new public spaces are expected to attract 25 to 30 million visitors annually.
Azabudai Hills aims to become one of the world’s largest integrated development projects, pursuing preliminary WELL certification and LEED BD+C certification, with the ultimate goal of achieving the highest level of LEED Neighborhood Development certification.
A key component of the plan is the Tokyo British School, designed by Heatherwick Studio. As the largest international school in Tokyo’s city center, it spans 15,000 square meters and takes full advantage of local climate conditions. The school offers eight levels of outdoor learning and leisure spaces, fostering an environment that promotes interaction between teachers and students.
This week, Heatherwick Studio also revealed plans for a new retail district in the ancient city of Xi’an, Shaanxi, China. The project highlights the region’s ceramic craftsmanship heritage, inviting visitors to engage through sensory experiences and moving beyond the isolated nature of online shopping. Additionally, the studio announced a design for an exhibition hall in Shanghai’s emerging West Bund waterfront area, called the “West Bund Track,” which will serve as a focal point for the new financial center in Xuhui District.
Lastly, Heatherwick Studio, in collaboration with Barcode Architects, was selected to design a new cultural, work, and entertainment center at Jaarbeursplein Centre Square in Utrecht, Netherlands.
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