Architecture Tour of Reversible Destiny Lofts Mitaka, Tokyo
Overview
Explore the vibrant Reversible Destiny Lofts Mitaka on a private tour, led by a professional architecture guide. These aspirational apartments will make you rethink your relationship with your surroundings and the potential of the human body.
Highlights
- Learn what the architect/artists behind these houses meant by “reversible destiny” and a “house to not to die”
- Discover and experience for yourself the unique architecture of Reversible Destiny Lofts Mitaka
- Witness the eye-popping colors and unexpected textures of an “ultrachromatic undying house”
- Enjoy these works of art-as-home with extra insights and explanations from a passionate architecture guide
- Follow guidelines passed down from the architects to fully experience the space as intended
Key Information
Important Information
• The rooms at Reversible Destiny Lofts Mitaka are not wheelchair-accessible; the surfaces are uneven, and while there is an elevator from the ground floor to the rooms you will tour, guests will have to climb stairs to enter the rooms • COVID-19 prevention measures are in place, including ventilation, disinfection, frequent hand-washing by staff, mask-wearing requirements for staffand participants, temperature checks, and hand sanitizer dispensers installed in the building • Tours may be cancelled depending on the spread of COVID-19; in such an event, we will email you at least one day in advance --- • This tour requires a minimum of 5 people; groups less than the minimum or solo guests may book by paying the 5-person price • As we would like guests to focus, photography is not allowed during the tour, but you may take pictures once the tour has ended • Children aged 0–5 may join free of charge • Guests must wear a mask during the tour • Please do not participate if you have a fever or feel unwell
Description
In Mitaka, amid the western suburbs of Tokyo, stand the Reversible Destiny Lofts Mitaka (in Memory of Helen Keller). Created by trailblazing architect/artists Shusaku Arakawa and Madeline Gins, these were the first-ever residential units built according to their concept of “a house not to die” — in other words, “architecture against death.” Completed in 2005, and attracting visitors from around the world, the Lofts are both artistry and accommodation. Their unique architecture makes them more than just structures; they are also interactive, permanently habitable works of art. The Lofts collectively comprise a living space of such diversity — from the shapes, colors, and textures of each surface; to uneven floors in some rooms; to the placement of handles and switches — that it should be impossible for you to take your surroundings for granted. Dedicated to Helen Keller and inspired by her ability to “reverse destiny,” the Lofts’ rooms offer a varying range of functionalities and different types of spaces to different people, depending on their physical abilities and ages. The overall objectives are to challenge and engage residents in their daily lives, to “evoke the senses,” bring attention to the full potential of the body, and ultimately realize you can do that which you once thought impossible. On this tour, you’ll follow a passionate and professional architecture guide to learn all about the meaning of, and concepts behind, the Reversible Destiny Lofts Mitaka. You’ll follow the guidance of the Lofts’ creators to fully appreciate their “architecture that prioritizes the body,” and its aim of empowering people to prolong their lives. With nine apartments across three towers, the Lofts are partially occupied, but you will be able to explore one third-story apartment that is kept unfurnished, preserved as closely as possible to the original design. After explanations by your guide, you’ll also look around an active office space, to see how the Lofts are used in reality. Join this tour to learn more about Arakawa and Gin’s vision and to discover the meaning of “reversible destiny”! All photos courtesy of Arakawa+Gins Tokyo Office, © 2005 Estate of Madeline Gins. Reproduced with permission of the Estate of Madeline Gins.