Koenji, located on the western outskirts of central Tokyo, holds a special place in my heart. In 1982, when I was 1, my parents moved out of Brooklyn and settled down, in all places, Koenji to start anew. I went to pre-school there and the majority of my childhood memories are rooted in the area. That’s why I was so excited when I came across renowned architect Toyo Ito’s new project, Za Koenji. Opening May 1st, Za Koenji is slated to become a performing arts center for the area.

With those good ol’ memories with me I’m taking off. Have a nice weekend!

Images courtesy of site／シキチ

Related:

• Toyo Ito Notebook

The capsule hotel is a distinctly Japanese concept catering to business men who have missed their last train home and/or are too drunk to make it home. But a new kind of capsule hotel is now offering grace and redemption to ashamed business men.  First Cabin, which recently opened in Osaka, the birth town of capsule hotels, recreates the experience of first-class flying for just $50 a night. The space was designed by Tadasu Ohe of Plantec Architects, who also happens to sit on the board of directors.

via Nikkei Business