THE LINKPILLAR1 NORTH

Fascinating technology, architecture, and greenery third space

Despite its 28 stories and 845,000-square-meter area, LINKPILLAR1 NORTH at Takanawa Gateway is easily navigable and features appealing, human-scale spaces. I didn't have high expectations before my visit. However, the attention to materials, acoustics, and social spaces impressed me. The complex has soaring spaces, verandas, laminated wooden seating, luscious plantings, and a sound system that broadcasts nature sounds such as bird song. The indoor-outdoor feeling of the spaces brings the outside sounds in, too. I really liked the veranda overlooking the water park landscape with the sound splashing off the surfaces. When you visit, look up. The attention to wood accents and the rhythmic patterns on the soffits is intriguing. The shops, cafes, and restaurants are upscale, but there is something at any price point. Window-shopping is relaxing here. Note that many perfumers, aromatherapists, and incense shops populate the space. I loved the aromas, but I admit I got a bit sniffly. Ride the robot! The hydrogen-powered autonomous vehicle moves at walking pace. It's a great way to slowly appreciate the volumes of space on the plaza level.