Co-Op Olympia, A Harajuku Landmark
Harajuku's landmark building is still standing after 45 years, but for how much longer?
Co-Op Olympia was completed in 1965, just after the Tokyo Olympics, which provided the inspiration for the building name. It is located right in the heart of Harajuku. The building has become a landmark in the area due to its unique design and prime location, and is a highly sought-after vintage residence.Read more
Apartment Reconstruction Still Lagging Despite Support System
The following is a translation of an article that appeared in the Nikkei Shimbun on October 30th, 2010.
The large scale repairs and rebuilding of aging apartments in Tokyo is becoming more and more of a concern. Apartments built during the construction boom from the 1970s are now nearing 40 years old. If apartments are not properly maintained they create a fire and crime hazard (possibly because they have less security features than modern buildings). At the national and city level there is a support system for rebuilding, but actual cases where the system has been used are few in number.Read more