The Asian headquarters of Hermès is yet another masterpiece within the architectural diversity of the Ginza district. Located just five minutes from other notable buildings housing fashion houses like Loro Piana and Louis Vuitton, this structure stands out.

Occupying eleven floors (plus three underground), the building encompasses not only retail spaces but also workshops, offices, exhibition areas, and a French-style garden on its roof.

According to architect Renzo Piano, the project is a subtle exploration of structure and material. The façade consists of 13,000 glass blocks, each measuring 42.8 cm x 42.8 cm, which interweave to form a "glass veil," creating the effect of a massive lantern illuminating the night in Ginza. This choice is inspired by traditional paper lanterns that adorn the entrances of Japanese homes. The blocks were specifically developed by Renzo Piano in collaboration with the Seves glass factory in Florence to meet stringent fire safety standards and ensure structural integrity in the event of an earthquake. The flexible metal framework of the building was also designed to withstand potential strong seismic activity.

Name: Ginza Maison Hermès / 銀座メゾンエルメス
City: Tokyo
Address: view the address
Architect: Renzo Piano
Year: 2001


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