click an image to see a larger version
Astellas Pharma Inc. Tsukuba Laboratory Sign planning for a pharmaceutical company research facility located in Tsukuba Science City. “Labels” serve as the design motif for the signs. This idea sprang from labels on medical bottles and from the architectural characteristics of the facility, which features a large number of curved glass surfaces. Outside visitors are not admitted to this facility, as it adjoins a closed laboratory complex where new medicines are developed and experiments performed. The sign lettering reflects the level of secrecy, with rooms indicated with symbolic “addresses” rather than names spelled out, even in locations only viewable by company employees. SDA (Japan sign design Association) / Prize for Encouragement. Takenaka Corporation Complete date : 2008 Total floor area : 24,263m2