Quality Innovation United introduces Mitsui Link Lab Shinkiba 3, its new laboratory and office project, completed in October 2024 in Shinkiba, Tokyo. This site represents a key milestone in the urban regeneration of a major industrial area within Tokyo Bay. Historically, the Shinkiba area has been a hub for the timber industry, with timber yards operating for over two decades. However, it is now transforming into a center for the bioscience industry. The Mitsui Link Lab series of projects has become a cornerstone of this transformation, offering unique “tenant labs” that can be adapted to businesses of varying scales within the bioscience sector.
Quality Innovation United has been fully engaged in this transition, including with Mitsui Link Lab Shinkiba 2, which was finalised in 2023. Our primary focus was to create vibrant and intelligent public spaces, both internally and externally. By opening sections of formerly closed research facilities to the public, we aim to promote a mutually beneficial environment which serves researchers while providing recreational spaces for the community.
The site, which spans 6,930 square meters, is situated in a prime location, bordered by a large pond and a canal on two sides. A main access point is provided by a road bridge at the northwest corner, connecting the site to Shinkiba Railway Station. We designed an outstanding waterfront landscape which complements the building’s surroundings and optimizes the structure’s attributes.
The Mitsui Link Lab Shinkiba 3 building features a total floor area of 14,000 square meters spread across six stories. Constructed with a reinforced concrete structure, the triangular building layout incorporates public functions, such as a café and lounge with co-working facilities, located at its northeast corner. Adjacent to them, an external deck offers stunning views of the former timber yard and canal. The deck is equipped with an operable canopy for environmental control which is a distinctive characteristic of the building’s façade.
A spacious garden with cherry blossom trees is located at the corner where the two water-facing sections meet. Visitors entering from the west-side plaza can enjoy a textured landscape garden, with pre-existing trees, leading to the corner garden. This linear garden can also be used as an event space facing the canal. The external aeras are tailored to be inviting, accommodating scientists, business developers, and public visitors alike.
The laboratory’s specialized requirements include accessible mechanical balconies for each tenancy unit, intended to contain ducts and pipes. These functional features play a defining role in the building’s façade design which is entirely covered with a grid of white steel frames, fitting both functional and aesthetic purposes. These frames support louvered screens to conceal mechanical equipment and provide balustrades for the precast concrete balconies.
Mitsui Link Lab Shinkiba 3 is a leading platform transforming Shinkiba into a bioscience hub, combining functional design and lively public spaces. By reviving the area and blending innovation with accessibility, the project sets a new standard for adaptable, community-focused architecture and urban design.
Program – Industrial, Laboratory
Location – Tokyo
Scope – Master plan, Architectural Design
Status – Completion 2024
