The dismantling of the metabolist Nakagin Capsule Tower in Tokyo has begun, with the interiors of its modular capsule homes already resembling a “demolition site.”
The iconic Japanese housing block, which was designed by architect Kisho Kurokawa, is being demolished due to the decay of its concrete and steel structure. Its interiors are in the process of being emptied out in preparation for asbestos removal, which will then be followed by the building’s complete disassembly.
Kurokawa’s Nakagin Capsule Tower was built in 1972 in Tokyo’s Ginza neighborhood. It comprises two interconnected concrete towers, onto which 140 prefabricated steel capsules are bolted. These pods contain tiny homes. Plans to disassemble the tower were confirmed in 2021, prompting residents to begin crowdfunding to preserve, donate or relocate the capsules. One of the groups retaining a module is named the Nakagin Capsule Tower A606 Project, which is restoring and modifying the capsule numbered A606.
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