‘AEAJ Green Terrace’ Wooden Structure in A Glass Box that Diffuses Aromatherapy

Amidst the vibrant Shibuya, a timber structure trapped in a glass box is a calming neutralizer. Kengo Kuma & Associates’ AEAJ Green Terrace, owned by the Aroma Environment Association of Japan, promotes well-being through aroma.

A timber structure trapped in a glass box (cr: Masaki Hamada / kkpo)

Combination of steel frame, glass envelope, and wooden structure (cr: Masaki Hamada / kkpo)

From the outside, the glass box appears to contain trees towering on its three floors. The combination of these materials seems to connect the indoor and outdoor, showing the firm’s expertise in integrating buildings into their environments. Furthermore, the facility also shows strong characteristics through the parametric configuration of the wood, just like Kuma’s other works.

Parametric latticework (cr: Masaki Hamada / kkpo)

The staircase (cr: Masaki Hamada / kkpo)

The latticework also provides natural insulation, thereby reducing energy consumption. The gaps between each slat filter light and cast patterned shadows in the room. If one pays attention to the detail, the AEAJ Terrace might resemble traditional Japanese techniques.

Natural insulation and light filter (cr: Masaki Hamada / kkpo)

Slat’s joinery (cr: Masaki Hamada / kkpo)

Inside, the space was programmed with an aromatherapy theme, consisting of a laboratory, library, and lounge to deliver an olfactory experience. The porous nature of the timber feature makes the building a giant diffuser that distributes the aroma of essential oils used throughout the room. Apart from the nose, the body and mind are also stimulated to feel, enhanced visually through a combination of wood materials, stone floors, and earth tones that produce a tranquil atmosphere.

A giant diffuser (cr: Masaki Hamada / kkpo)

Tranquil atmosphere (cr: Masaki Hamada / kkpo)

One of the site's assets is its panorama overlooking the Jingumae woods. Additionally, its artistic profile provides a contrast to the nearby Yoyogi National Gymnasium by Kenzo Tange. Overall, AEAJ Green Terrace is an aromatherapy facility that spoils all senses.

The Yoyogi National Gymnasium looked from AEAJ Green Terrace (cr: Masaki Hamada / kkpo)

The view at night (cr: Masaki Hamada / kkpo)