Illustrator Hiroki Tsuboi Visits Sumitomo Group
Tokyo Head Office (Osaki Forest Building)
Japan Research Institute

The Japan Research Institute (JRI) wears many hats, excelling in research, consulting, and systems integration. But even the sharpest minds need a comfortable space to think big. With this in mind, JRI recently revamped its office, aiming to create a workspace that inspires both productivity and creativity.

A transformed office space redefining the workplace: equipped with seating for impromptu team huddles, monitors, and standingheight tables for dynamic exchanges.

The Osaki Forest Building, home to JRI’s offices on floors 3-13, completed in 2011 and renovated in 2023 with the theme “Connect to Future Values.”

Wonderful office and super-attractive cafeteria! Don’t you feel like coming to the office every day?

JRI brings together specialists in research, incubation, consulting, and IT solutions, enthusiastically engaging in “knowledge engineering.” In September 2023, JRI’s head office in Higashi-Gotanda, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, unveiled a fresh look following a major renovation. We couldn’t resist paying a visit to see how this transformation reflects their innovative spirit.

Crossing the threshold into the JRI headquarters is like stepping into the future. Employees pass through the security gates without the slightest glitch—no fumbling for ID cards is required. While IC card access is standard in most office buildings, JRI took things a stride further. “We had implemented facial recognition technology before the renovation to enhance security,” explains Mr. Shigeru Kobayashi, of the Administration Department. This upgrade means employees can navigate the building worry-free—even if they forget their ID card when stepping out to the common areas. As for attendance, it’s tracked via computer log-ins and log-outs.

The recent office renovation wasn’t a top-down decision—it reflected the voices of those who know the space best. Employee feedback, gathered through surveys and discussions led by young representatives from each department shaped the design. During my tour, the most striking feature was the large open-plan floor, dotted with greenery to create a refreshing atmosphere. Gone are the 120 or so meeting rooms of the past; now, there are about 30, allowing for a much more spacious work area. Traditional rows of desks have been replaced with diverse seating options: box seats for small meetings, semi-private rooms for online meetings, and private booths for confidential discussions. “We’ve embraced hybrid work, combining remote and in-office arrangements,” explains Mr. Kobayashi. “Our goal was to foster communication and make the office a place employees genuinely want to come to. The core concept is activitybased working, where employees can choose their workspace based on the nature of the task.”

JRI’s office is as varied as its tasks, with fixtures designed to suit every need. There are triangular three-seat desks for collaborative work, height-adjustable desks for those who prefer to stand, and even armchairs crafted from recycled fishing nets and plastic bottles. For the adventurous, balance balls add a playful twist. Near the entrance, the “President’s Treat Vending Machine” offers beverages free of charge. Outdoor chairs bring a touch of camping atmosphere. The centrally located refreshment area features a coffee machine, a water cooler, and a collection of board games. It’s the ideal spot for employees to recharge with a drink in hand, spark new ideas, and enjoy conversations.

Employee-inspired refreshment areas earn high praise! — The refreshment area features a coffee machine offering free beverages and a smart water cooler.
The cooler connects to an app, allowing you to track your water intake and manage your health.

Next, we ascended to the 13th floor, home of the Hidamari cafeteria and the KOKAGE café. The cafeteria takes pride in its fresh flavorful offerings, including soba noodles crafted from freshly stone-ground buckwheat flour and rice cooked in a traditional broad-brimmed pot. A standout feature is the Chef’s Live Corner, where, on certain days, culinary treats are offered. From teppanyaki-grilled beef skirt steak to hamburgers from a renowned beef tongue restaurant, these dishes draw eager crowds. At the buffet corner it’s all about precision and rewards. Load up at the daily deli, and if your plate hits the magic numbers of 100g, 200g, or 300g, you receive Starbucks coffee vouchers—one, two, or three cups. The KOKAGE café offers irresistible soft-serve ice cream for a mere 130 yen. Self-serve to your heart’s content! There’s something for everyone: waffles, crepes, or beef bowls for those chasing a deadline or skipping lunch who need something substantial. Some 1,400 meals are served each day at the cafeteria and the café.

The 13th floor boasts not only a great view but also a remarkable array of seating options—529 in total. To create the perfect blend of comfort and style, the Administration Department’s staff visited various showrooms, carefully selecting more than 20 different types of chairs and sofas. Among the highlights is a vibrantly colorful sofa from HERALBONY, a start-up whose merchandise features works by artists with intellectual disabilities. As Mr. Kobayashi explains, the transformation was truly radical: “The former cafeteria had 800 seats, all identical, with the old tables and chairs lined up. We couldn’t close the cafeteria for the renovation, so we replaced everything—tables, chairs, flooring and pillar coverings—during a three-day holiday break last summer. It was a surprise to everyone after the break.”

The café offers Starbucks coffee and Vie de France pastries,
perfect if you fancy something during a busy workday.

Different lighting for each area of greenery and every corner
creates a relaxing atmosphere.

The seating options on the 13th floor cater to a wide range of needs and preferences. Counter seats offer a view of the outside world, while sofa seats invite relaxation with their plush comfort. Among the most popular are booth-type seats, affectionately nicknamed “Kamakura,” named after the cozy igloo-like snow domes of Japan. These secluded spots provide not only privacy but also functionality, with power outlets and mobile batteries available at each seat. Outside of lunch hours, the Kamakura booths become versatile spaces for meetings or immersive work. It’s no surprise that many employees gravitate to this floor to work in this refreshing environment.

“‘Kamakura’ seating is popular.” “It’s so
calming!”

JRI’s commitment to the SDGs is evident in the recent office renovation. For years the company has participated in TABLE FOR TWO (TFT), an initiative that provides nutritious school meals to children in developing countries. JRI has earned platinum partner status, and the renovated cafeteria now features even more TFT menu options. At the tray return counter, a display shows the amount of food left uneaten in the previous month alongside a banner reading “Aim for Zero Food Loss.” The cafeteria operator notes that food waste is about half that typical of similar-sized cafeterias. “We are striving for even greater reductions,” says Mr. Kobayashi, underscoring the company’s dedication to minimizing waste.

In August 2024, a year after completing its office renovation that enabled new workstyles, JRI hosted a Family Day, welcoming 750 family members of employees. It featured activities in a dedicated kids’ space and gave participants the chance to enjoy lunch in the cafeteria. Visitors were impressed by the quality of the food, even expressing envy. “I’m jealous that you get to eat such a delicious lunch,” remarked one visitor, while another added, “I’d love to visit the office again.”

Employees’ family members love the office, too

Family Day “Dad, what a lovely office you work in!” “Yes.”

“And what a stylish chair!” “It’s made of recycled fishing nets and plastic bottles.” “Wow! That’s great for the SDGs!”

“At the refurbished cafeteria, we can select from a wide menu!” “Delicious!” “I want to come here every day!”

“Dad! I’ll study hard, join the company, and work here in the future!” “Me too! I’ll come here every day!” “You are after the soft-serve ice cream!”

Editor's note

The cafeteria isn’t just a place to grab a meal but has a menu with lots of delicious options. The café offers favorites like Starbucks coffee and Vie de France pastries. A row of vending machines provides even more variety, ensuring you can find your favorite pick-me-up. For those in the IT department, who sometimes work late into the night, having a space to refuel with nutritious food and unwind makes all the difference. This thoughtful setup helps everyone dive into their work with renewed energy and focus.