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, pat...