We at nottuo designed the head office, adjacent to a new factory, for ‘Azumino Mineral Water,’ a company that manufactures and sells mineral water in Azumino, Nagano. Our work focused on the office space design and signage design.
Another architectural design firm was initially involved, and site preparation work had already begun when nottuo was approached. We were brought on board due to the president’s strong desire: “This isn’t good enough as it is. I want to create a place where our staff can work with pride!” This led us to undertake a revision of the interior space plan.
Starting a project when construction was already underway was a first for us, and naturally, it was a period filled with numerous difficulties and challenges. However, thanks to the immense efforts of the architect in charge of the building design and the construction company’s site supervisor, we were able to see the project through to completion.
Although interior design was the core of this project, we engaged in extensive discussions with the client’s president and staff regarding layout plan changes, furniture and fixture selection, and the signage plan. We were able to implement various features throughout the space, not only to fulfill necessary functions but also to create value beyond mere functionality.
For us at nottuo, it was a moment that reaffirmed our belief that design is not about our own creations, but a means to bring happiness to our clients.
For small and medium-sized enterprises across Japan, in particular, the working environment as a space will likely become increasingly important in branding, both internally and externally.
We hope to see more business owners, even in regional areas, who are willing to invest in design and steer towards enhancing emotional value. This, we believe, will lead to an increase in attractive companies unique to each locality.
