In order to counteract the negative connotations of a narrow urban site, we focused on the notion of “urban gaps,” developing a design theme around sightlines and openness. By carefully observing the surrounding building forms, we identified directions on each floor where the interior could extend comfortably outward, even within a dense context. Balconies were oriented differently for each guestroom, allowing every floor and room to enjoy a distinct view. At the same time, the staggered arrangement of openings produced a lively façade—appearing as though a slender volume had been randomly carved—transforming the limitations of a tight site into a positive, architectural identity for a new type of urban hotel.

On each floor, structural adjustments were introduced at the edge bays (X4–X5), enabling three distinct balcony configurations. The other bays (X1–X4) remain consistent across levels, achieving construction efficiency while maximizing room count. Through this strategy, the final edge bay becomes the site of architectural expression, giving rise to a façade with unique character.

The exterior reads as a white rectangular prism carved away to form balconies—its structural system a key feature. To preserve unobstructed outward views, no columns drop within the balconies. Some are triangular cutouts offset to either side, while others span the full frontage as large terraces, resulting in a rhythmic, iconic façade. Achieving such variety required more than a conventional moment frame; instead, a braced-frame hybrid system was adopted. This allowed column placement to respond flexibly to the plan and enabled the creation of these distinctive voids. The hotel thus offers guests multiple perspectives of Tokyo, framed through balconies that open into the interstices of the city.

The braced-frame hybrid also allowed smooth transitions between plans and façade expressions. To maximize interior space, structural dimensions were restrained: the nine-story steel structure uses beams at 300mm depth, with slender columns ranging from 150–200mm in diameter. The small column sections fit within walls, permitting natural light to trace uninterrupted along interior surfaces. Guestroom walls are softly curved, generating an enveloping spatial quality that flows seamlessly outward, enhancing the perception of openness.

The site is surrounded by typical central Tokyo mid-rise buildings—heterogeneous in height, materials, and apertures, without any unified design code or distant scenic views. Unlike most city hotels, which rarely incorporate balconies in order to maximize room size, this project derived its architectural identity precisely from them. The balcony system not only created an iconic façade but also generated a balanced room mix, with varied layouts directly shaping the guest experience.

By solving multiple challenges with a single architectural gesture, the design embraces a uniquely Japanese sensibility of compact spatial intelligence. The result is a hotel that offers a distinctly Tokyo-like stay, transforming spatial constraints into opportunities for richness and variety.