populuxe

Built in Tokyo almost 35 years ago by Kisho Kurokawa, the Nakagin still stands as the first attempt by a modern designer to create a building that could adapt to the needs of its inhabitants.

Each capsule was constructed with built-in bathrooms, bedrooms, and entertainment centers and then hoisted into place and attached by only 4 central bolts. The idea was that the rooms could be moved and expanded as needed by the singles and families that took up residence.

Since construction no capsule has been moved and today the structure is in disrepair. Most of the units currently are rented out as cheap office space and there is a growing movement within the community to have the tower torn down.

Some more photos at Juergen Specht's.