KYOEI STEEL LTD. Yamaguchi Division New Office Building by KOIZUMI LIGHTING TECHNOLOGY CORP. (Japan)

Aug 31

Kyoei Steel Yamaguchi Division New Office Building
The Embrace of Recycled Steel

Kyoei Steel, a leading Japanese company, recycles steel scrap—including construction waste, automobiles, household appliances, and medical needles—using electric furnaces to manufacture structural steel. The newly constructed office building at its Yamaguchi facility embodies the theme, “An Office Embraced in Recycled Steel,” showcasing the transformation of steel scrap into structural steel through architectural expression. This building integrates aging facilities to improve site efficiency, optimize work environments, and enhance employee engagement, all while contributing to a sustainable future.

The exterior design draws inspiration from the steel billets stored at the factory, reflecting their dynamic forms in the architectural volumes while symbolizing the strength and versatility of steel.

The interior design incorporates structural materials, including angle steel, flat bars, and rebars, all of which are produced at the Yamaguchi facility. Typically concealed in buildings, these steel components are intentionally made central to the design, emphasizing their raw materiality. From the entrance hall to the elevator hall, Kyoei Steel’s "barcode pattern" is prominently featured, while the stairwell integrates wire and angle steel to emphasize vertical elements. Staircase handrails are assembled according to the "barcode pattern," achieving a harmonious spatial expression by combining steel and lighting. This motif extends to offices and dining areas, where linear lighting paired with steel elements creates a rhythmic and comfortable atmosphere, balancing functionality and design.

The lighting design, inspired by steel billets, incorporates custom fixtures along ceilings and walls, creating a unified luminous effect. The lighting amplifies the "barcode pattern," transforming it into a dynamic spatial element that adds depth and movement while reinforcing Kyoei Steel's corporate identity. Linear lighting and custom fixtures sculpt the space, emphasizing the materiality of steel and creating dramatic light-shadow contrasts. Vertical light in the stairwell adds rhythm, symbolizing Kyoei Steel's advanced technology and forward-looking innovation.

The atrium integrates vertical light with a QR code-inspired relief. While two-dimensional in origin, the QR code motif represents the limitless expanse of the digital realm. This concept is expressed spatially, with light extending three-dimensionally from the QR code, symbolizing sparks of progress and innovation. This design highlights steel’s presence while evoking cosmic vastness and future potential. These lighting effects, paired with thoughtful architectural design, create an ambiance that embodies Kyoei Steel’s technical excellence and aspirations.

This office building reflects Kyoei Steel’s philosophy of contributing to a circular economy. It elevates the beauty and value of recycled steel, using architectural and lighting design to create a new dimension of expression. By seamlessly merging functionality and aesthetics, this project serves as an innovative prototype for future architecture, symbolizing Kyoei Steel’s brand identity and forward-thinking vision while celebrating the endless potential of recycled materials.

A3 Panel & Drawing