Osaka, Japan
Project task: Development of a strategy as part of the planning of the Freightyard area Kita-Town with the goal of promoting the settlement of globally active companies.
Concept: The mobility requirements of a major city and the functionality of the area as a business district were the basis for the creative idea: a Formula 1 racetrack offers the framework in which the entire traffic and infrastructure concept of the urban district is integrated. The idea was to stage the new city concept in a way that attracts attention and brings businesses to the area. The new Formula 1 racetrack is set to be officially opened with a race in Spring 2004. The vision: The unusual racetrack makes the event and the city world famous. The tourism industry booms. Business professionals seize the opportunity and establish subsidiaries in Osaka. The Kita-Town land parcels are sold out by the end of 2004. Due to the high demand, many companies share buildings and land parcels. Architectural diversity is added to the wide range of companies. Colourful surroundings are generated. This in turn contributes to the pulsating public and professional life and to the success of Kita-Town. The concentration of networked companies, specialised suppliers, service providers, universities and trade organisations forms a local cluster. Public facilities, theatre events, sport and recreation centres, art exhibits, entertainment centres and amusement parks are part of Kita-Town's corporate identity. The legendary Formula 1 is held once a year, which has meanwhile become a permanent fixture in Osaka.
Team: The project was developed in an interdisciplinary team. Schmidt and Kunzemann Architects, Office for Solar Energy Prof. Stahl, the graphic design agency of Harriet Corcodel.
Award: The work was awarded the Weissenhof Prize under the category City Construction as Marketing.
