MoN Takanawa: The Museum of Narratives

MoN Takanawa: The Museum of Narratives is a multi-functional museum with a mission to “carry culture forward for the next 100 years.” Through collaboration with a diverse range of partners, the project aims to create new forms of Japanese culture and share them globally. The facility spans from three basement levels to six floors above ground, incorporating exhibition spaces, event areas, public spaces, as well as a café, restaurant, and retail shop.

Interoffice was involved from the early stages of concept development, providing proposals for spatial planning and usability, conducting client consultations, and leading the furniture selection process in alignment with the overall design concept. The team also offered layout advisory and supported the project comprehensively through to delivery. In addition, custom-made furniture was designed and produced for the administrative office areas.

In response to the project’s mission, Interoffice established the concept of creating a space through furniture that feels as though it has existed for 100 years and will continue for another 100 years. Under the keyword “Sustainable Furniture,” the approach extended beyond environmental considerations to encompass broader aspects of sustainability. The planning was developed through five perspectives: Design, Reuse, Flexible, Original, and Technology, with Interoffice curating the overall furniture composition.

Furniture previously used at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai was repurposed and incorporated into the project as part of a circular approach. On the first floor, the Mon Park Café features furniture by Vitra that was used in the Swiss Pavilion’s “Heidi Café.” On the third floor, Mon Kitchen adopts outdoor furniture by Carl Hansen & Søn, originally used on the rooftop terrace of the Nordic Pavilion. In addition, selected pieces were repaired and reintroduced by Interoffice, further reinforcing a sustainable cycle of use.

Reuse of furniture previously used within the East Japan Railway Company Group was also integrated into the project, promoting internal asset circulation. The project represents not only a realization of its conceptual vision, but also a meaningful contribution in both environmental and social terms.