Renovation of the Nankai Terminal Building

The Nankai Building was designed as the fourth-generation Nankai Namba Station by the architect Misao Kuno in 1932. The northern exterior wall located at the end of Midosuji Boulevard, which was greatly widened as a result of Osaka City’s major urban renovation project, consists of triple windows, rhythmic arches, and Corinthian columns embellished with acanthus patterns, which are expressions of strength and elegance. The cultural value of these ornaments is very high, and it is one of the most prominent buildings utilizing terracotta decorations. However, through its long history, the building had suffered from repetitive repairs and refurbishments, and had fallen into a decrepit state with disorganized signboards, decorations and paint jobs. The building had become a negative symbol of Namba’s economic recession.

The original design of the north wall was conserved and restored, as part of the Nankai Terminal Building’s renovation project. The message of change in the renovation project is now the symbol of Namba’s revival.

Renovation work focused on preservation and restoration of the original work, while inserting innovativeness. Tiles installed with mortar were replaced with cladding tiles. Minimal repairs were done on the terracotta decorations of the Nankai Building’s north exterior wall using the latest technologies to preserve its wholesome weathered aesthetic. The eaves, which were altered into copper-covered design in past renovations, have been restored to retrieve the original design. Innovative aspects were also installed on the rooftop penthouse curtain wall and the two MPG curtain walls on the exterior walls express a message of innovation and change.