Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on May 2012

Miyamaedaira Grand Opening

From alternative-lifestyle masters Social Apartments comes the latest residence on their roster of remarkable dwellings. The new house is based just 20 minutes from Shibuya in a charming residential area called Miyamaedaira, ensconced on the Denentoshi line.

The interior has been lovingly created by a designer who has an impressive array of cool cafés on his résumé. He was chosen to replicate the easy-breezy flavor of a stylish café in residents’ living arrangements. The multicolor tiles and colorful carpets compliment the rustic atmosphere, and the unique selection of unpaired furniture caters to those who live kicking back, coffee in hand. A unique community is expected to form from the 25 culture buffs beginning to fill its spaces.

The full range of facilities on offer include a gorgeous shared lounge, a kitchen with a counter, a library/workspace with Wi-Fi, a party room, soundproof room, beauty room, and a fully equipped, free-of-charge laundry room.

Come by on weekends during the day for an open house. If you can’t make weekends, reserve any weekday for a private tour.

What’s more, they are giving away a one-month’s free rent voucher—worth up to ¥80,000—for those who come to the open house.

Ask about discounts for long-term stays.

• Nearest stn: Miyamaedaira (Denentoshi line)
• More info here

More about Social Apartment

If you are going to live in shared accommodation, you might as well do it in style. Social Apartment is a network of designer buildings that provide residents with a smart, luxurious environment. The main focal point is always a shared lounge carefully furnished with unconventional, hand-picked furniture, a large screen TV and a high-quality sound system, aspects which set this housing solution apart from any competition.

In these shared spaces people can come together, and the communication achieved there is the cornerstone of Social Apartment’s philosophy. Previous residents have always spoken of the rich, horizon-broadening exchange they experienced as one of the most enduring qualities of their stay at Social Apartment.

The design of these living spaces won the 2007 Good Design Award and has been lauded by critics. What’s more, the areas in which the Social Apartments of Tokyo are found are thriving with a proliferation of shops, gyms, cafés, groovy bars and tasty restaurants.

Have a look at their website, and, whichever Social Apartment takes your fancy, feel free to visit and see for yourself how you could be living.

3F Cross Office Shibuya, 1-12-2 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo. Tel: 03-5485-7390. Open daily 9am-7pm. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.social-apartment.com