The Green Marvel of Philippe Starck

Architect Philippe Starck designed and completed the Unhex Nani Nani in 1989. This green copper-sheeted modern structure stands out on an otherwise ordinary street in the middle of Tokyo. The five-story office building, with commercial space at street level, was intended for Unhex, a construction company eager to project a distinctive image. The name “Nani nani” translates to “what is it?” in Japanese, a fitting title given the puzzled reactions to the verdigris metal-clad building.

What truly makes this building unique, apart from its unconventional shape, is its color. The chosen finish, patina green, replicates the blue and green shades of bronze oxidation that would naturally take decades to form. Bronze alloys undergo a fascinating transformation, changing from their original pink-tinted amber shade to dark brown, and finally to turquoise. These rich textures and stately metallic shades are favored in various architectural constructions. Philippe Starck’s design intent was to create an image of a green monster rising from a swamp, and he certainly achieved a striking visual impact.

Color is a fundamental element in architecture, influencing the aesthetic appeal, psychological impact, and functionality of buildings. Understanding the role of color in architecture allows architects and designers to create environments that are not only visually pleasing but also functionally effective. The choice of green for the Unhex Nani Nani is an example of thinking outside the box. Typically, green in a residential setting is used sparingly, often as an accent color. However, green has a powerful historical impact. In the Middle Ages, it was a symbol of wealth and riches, famously used by Leonardo da Vinci as the color of Mona Lisa’s dress.

For artists, green is the result of mixing blue and yellow, with variations depending on the proportions of these two primary colors. The many shades of green can inspire different feelings and associations. For many people, green means nature, bringing to mind lush grass, trees, and forests. It is often described as refreshing and tranquil. Additionally, green is associated with money, luck, health, and even envy.

Starck’s use of green on the Unhex Nani Nani highlights the potential for color to challenge conventional design norms. By choosing a bold and unconventional color palette, architects, designers and artists can make powerful statements and create memorable, works of art. The Unhex Nani Nani stands as an example to the innovative use of color in architecture, demonstrating how a thoughtful application of green can transform an ordinary structure into a visual masterpiece.