Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on June 2012

What’s the concept of the company?

At Ryozan Park people share not only the living and/or work environment but also ideas, culture, language, and friendship. We want to create a forum for cooperation and collaboration, providing the resources and encouragement necessary for residents to realize their personal and business potential.

Why did you choose your shared house’s location?

Ryozan Park is conveniently located just a few minutes on foot from the JR Yamanote line, and Mita and Namboku subway lines: close enough to commute to all major stations, but far enough to provide the physical and mental space required for creativity to flourish. The calm, green, spacious neighborhood is perfect for a community powered by cooperation and innovation. Some local bars and restaurants even offer discounts to residents!

What is the “ladies’ floor?”

In order to offer residents maximum comfort and security we have provided the option of a ladies-only floor, which features a beauty room equipped with massage chair, facial steamer and electric hair styling tools etc. We also offer the unique environment of a ladies-only share office space on the same floor.

What’s the decor concept?

The decor can be described as cozy eclectic luxury. You’ll see chandeliers—no two the same—a 2m-high horse (among other animals), and a bright-red, state-of-the-art kitchen. Most of the furniture has been imported from various countries to create a space where residents will feel pampered and inspired, but also right at home.

Who are the decorators/designers/architects—do they have a story?

This project is part of a family business. Noritaka Takezawa came back to Japan from the US last year to join his parents, sister, and their in-house architects in designing Ryozan Park. Takezawa now manages the share house with his girlfriend Rachel from Scotland. Together they work hard to create a comfortable and exciting international environment where they can share their own passions for music, fitness, politics, and community through classes, conferences and parties held in Ryozan Park’s various event spaces.

Any cool architectural/decor details?

At almost 190cm tall, Takezawa is used to regularly banging his head in standard houses. The ceilings at Ryozan Park were built 3m high to ensure residents would not suffer the same problem. It also helps to create a greater feeling of space and provides more storage possibilities.

Other features include a small gym with free weights, bikes, TRX training system, bench press, leg curl and extension machines, chest press, functional training system etc.

There is also a 200m2 event space in the basement for activities such as lectures, networking parties, concerts, and yoga classes, many of which are created and hosted by residents themselves. The basement is also available for private rental.

How does the shared office work?

We have shared offices on three floors: one offers fixed desk rental and private rooms for small businesses; the second is for female only use; the third is a more relaxed free seating arrangement. Office tenants are also welcome to use Ryozan Park’s large kitchen/dining space between the hours of 11am and 6pm.

Why should people choose Ryozan Park?

If you believe in the power of collaboration and cooperation, value community and friendship, enjoy learning and expanding your horizons, and seek a like-minded lively international community, Ryozan Park is the place for you.

Tel: 03-6912-0304. www.ryozanpark.jp/english