January 29, 2026
English‑Speaking Architects in Tokyo
Your guide to Tokyo-based architects who speak your language and understand your vision
By Metropolis
Creating the design you envision is definitely not something you want to communicate through Google Translate. That’s why we’ve rounded up English‑speaking architects in Tokyo ready to provide hands‑on service for those looking to start a project.
Transforming an old, abandoned home into something magical? Read our guide to abandoned home renovations in Japan here.
B01 (Bureau 0-1)
B01 (Bureau 0-1) is a Tokyo-based, award-winning architecture and design firm known for rigorous, process-driven innovation and timeless design that transcends boundaries. Established in 2018, the studio works across industrial, hospitality, retail and bespoke residential projects, offering full-service architecture, interior design, art installations, and brand development. As a fully licensed first-class architect in Japan, B01 operates seamlessly in both English and Japanese, bringing a globally fluent yet deeply considered approach to every project.
Hours/Days: 10am – 7pm, Monday – Friday
Email: hi@bureau0-1.com
Web: bureau0-1.com
Address: 9-23 Ichibancho Building, 3F
Chiyoda-ku Ichibancho
YOSHIMOTO ASSOCIATES INC.
Best for: Reformed modern architecture
Yoshimoto Associates opened in Ebisu in 2021 under Daishi Yoshimoto. This office handled Tokyo American Club Nihonbashi, which opened Mar. 31, 2021, and Azabu Nagasaka residential tower in 2018. It typically works on custom homes, renovations, commercial buildings, landscape and lighting design—all with English and Spanish support.
Hours/days: Call for a consultation
Phone: 03‑6433‑7900
Website: yassociates.jp
Address: 2‑11‑12 Ebisunishi, Shibuya‑ku
Interested in the latest modern architecture trends in Japan? Check out our article on wooden architecture in Japan.
HUNE Architects
Best for: Full-service designs, including interiors
Founded by Kota Tamaki and Julia Li, HUNE combines Japanese and international expertise. Tamaki holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree from the University of Tokyo and studied in Delft, while Li trained at the University of Bath and the Architectural Association in London. These architects in Tokyo offer English, Cantonese and Mandarin support and manage projects from plot selection to interiors.
Hours/days: By appointment
Phone: 03‑6417‑9112
Website: hune.design
Address: 2‑13‑5 Nishi‑Gotanda, Shinagawa‑ku
Van Der Architects
Best for: Embassies, schools and businesses
Van Der Architects specializes in interior design, workplace renovation and community‑center projects. The firm brings international flair and strong English communication to every commission. Its portfolio spans airport lounges, embassy spaces and educational facilities, reflecting a versatile and globally-minded design approach.
Hours/days: Call for a consultation
Phone: 03‑6426‑2255
Email: sos@vanderarchitects.com
Website: vanderarchitects.com
Address: 2‑2‑3 Kitasenzoku, Ota‑ku
I‑IN
Best for: Creative brands and start-ups seeking minimalist spaces
I‑IN has focused on warm minimalism with cultural depth since its founding in 2018. Projects include office spaces such as Warp Studio and a Cartier lounge in Tokyo. The studio emphasizes tactile textures and flexible spaces, with communication available in English.
Hours/days: Contact via site
Website: i‑in.jp
Address: 3-16-14 2F, Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku
Japandi and minimalism designs are in. Read our guide to minimalist designs here.
Bakoko Architects
Best for: Sustainable architecture
An article by Rethinking the Future says that Bakoko Architects ranks among Tokyo’s top 50 firms. It works on residential, institutional, commercial, hospitality, civic and religious projects across Japan, China and Europe. Its architects in Tokyo offer English consultation and flexible modern aesthetics with cultural sensitivity.
Hours/days: Contact by email
Website: bakoko.jp
Address: Tokyo (call to inquire)
Kobayashi Maki Design Workshop (KMDW)
Best for: Architecture, renovations and community-focused projects with bilingual support
Based in Tokyo, Kobayashi Maki Design Workshop (KMDW) is an international, bilingual design firm working across a wide range of scales and disciplines. The studio’s portfolio spans architecture, interior design, university buildings, concept development and project coordination, making it a strong choice for complex projects that require both creative vision and clear cross-cultural communication. All staff are fully bilingual, allowing KMDW to work closely with international clients without language barriers.
Hours/days: By appointment
Phone: 03-6415-7980
Email: kmdw@kmdw.com
Website: kmdw.com
Address: 30-3 Sarugaku-cho, Shibuya-ku (A-402)
ABD Architecture LLC
Best for: Snow-resilient homes, ski-area developments and onsen projects
Based in Sapporo, Hokkaido, ABD Architecture LLC specializes in resort and high-end developments across Japan. The firm has extensive experience delivering luxury homes, hotels and large-scale developments, particularly in Niseko and other major Japanese ski resorts.
ABD Architecture LLC has an international, multidisciplinary team that includes Western-trained, Japan-licensed professionals, an in-house First-Class Architect and specialists in design, engineering, project management and real estate. This structure supports clear communication and compliance with Japanese regulations throughout each project.
Hours/days: 9am – 6pm, Monday – Friday
Phone: 011-206-0340
Email: info@abd-architecture.com
Website: abd-architecture.com
Address: Sapporo, Chuo-ku S3W10 1002-1, S310 bldg No. 502 Hokkaido, Japan
Need some inspiration for your project? Check out Tokyo’s Sento Architecture Mastermind: Kentaro Imai.