Class room,
Toyo University AKABANEDAI CAMPUS

Dec. 13,2021

School and UniversityClass Room

Project Description

A new learning center at Toyo University's Akabanedai Campus

In January 2021, construction of a new school building, 'WELLB HUB-2', with one basement floor and nine stories above ground, was completed at Toyo University's Akabanedai Campus. The first thing that catches the eye upon entering the school building is the atrium space in the escalator section that runs from the entrance hall on the first floor to the fifth floor. The bright and open space welcomes students.
Wood is used throughout the building, including corridor walls, information maps and signs on each floor, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The classrooms on the second through fifth floors are lined with desk chairs by Kotobuki Seating. There are two types of classrooms: rooms with only movable type desk chairs and rooms with both movable and fixed type desk chairs, which are employed according to the lessons held there.

Movable desk chair combining design and ease of use

The movable desk chair is a set comprising the FC-873 stacking chair and the FT-600D folding table series from THE HERRINGBONE series.
This easy-to-move set was chosen for its flexibility in adapting to layout changes during class, such as for group work.

The backrest of the FC-873 chair has a 'Herringbone design' for a fabric-like comfort. Its ornate design is unusual for furniture in educational facilities and garners attention.

The backrest is ventilated by this herringbone openwork design, which also visually creates an impression of spaciousness and transparency. It fosters an environment where students can learn freely and peacefully, regardless of the intense atmosphere of a classroom.

Despite its compact size, the seat is still wide and deep, making for comfortable seating. During class, students' writing and listening positions are kept comfortable, which improves their focus.

The chair's modest weight (4.1 kg) makes it easy to transport and store, and it was also deemed user-friendly.

The FT-600D series is a folding table designed for easy layout changes. The table can be easily moved by simply grasping the handy lever, for smooth layout changes while leaving belongings on the table.

The casters retract into the legs for a stable and firm setup when the table is in use.

Single-leg type fixed desk chair for comfortable seating and easy walk-through

The SD-777 series of lecture desk chairs with single-leg were used in classrooms having fixed desk chairs.

Students can concentrate on the lecture without worrying about vibrations from nearby seats because of the single-leg-for-each-chair structure.

People who are seated can lean forward slightly so others can easily pass behind their seats. Even if students get late to class, they can take their seat without disturbing the lecture.

The chair is made up of two parts, the back and the seat. The backrest follows the S-shaped curve of the spine, and the raised-at-the-back 'ducktail' design of the seat ensures a stable and comfortable seating experience.

The backrest was made of natural wood to match the ample wood used throughout the school. The navy upholstery, along with the school color 'Tekkon (metallic blue)' creates a warm and calm atmosphere.

Toyo University's Akabanedai Campus has received a breath of fresh air with the completion of the new school building. The warm and welcoming classrooms with user-friendly desks and chairs enrich the students' learning experience.

Facility Overview

With the move of the Faculty of Life Design and other faculties, Toyo University's Akabanedai Campus has considerably extended its educational and research environment.

The theme of the new building 'WELLB HUB-2', is 'Linking'. The word 'well-being', from which 'WELLB' is derived, refers to being in a healthy and sound mental and physical state, and the new facility is meant to be a center for education and research focused on achieving this goal.

The 'Topo Terrace,' a vast outdoor staircase that extends three-dimensionally from the second floor to the first floor, is a multi-directional construction. It serves not only as a conduit but also as a space for students to interact with one another.

'AI-House HUB-4', an international student dormitory with a capacity of approximately 300 students, will be completed in April 2022, and 'HELSPO HUB-3', a facility with a gymnasium and library, will be completed in April 2023.

Project Summary

Location: Kita-Ku, Tokyo Map

Client: Toyo University Incorporated Educational Institution

Design: Toyo University Akabanedai Campus New Building Design and Supervision Joint Venture　 Kengo Kuma and Associates, Nihon Sekkei, Toda Corporation First-Class Architect Office