NoRA (Network of Research & Architecture) is an international Architecture and Planning platform that celebrates & integrates Research, Experimentation and Design under architectural thinking. As a network of thinkers, creatives and entrepreneurs, NoRA’s goal is to share our collective experiences and knowledge with the society and use design and architecture as a tool for advancing the modern world in a holistic approach. NoRA currently holds three collaborative hubs in Tokyo, Rabat and Paris.

Spatial Design

While typical solutions for typical demands are reproduced on a large scale across the globe, NoRA believes there are better alternatives that can positively impact the way we live. Whether for an individual or a larger group, NoRA utilizes its network and collective minds to generate creative approaches and designs—not to provide finished products, but to offer a new book in which users can write their own stories.

2022 YAGUMO APARTMENT
2021 MEGURO ROOM RENOVATION
2021 “WHO ELSE IF NOT YOU” INSTALLATION
2021 ISSIKI HOUSE
2021 YAMAYA RESTAURANT
2020 WAGNER PROJECT / OITA
2020 THE HAGUE INTERNATIONAL QUARTER
2020 GARAGE HOUSE
2019 TRIPOLI KNOWLEDGE & INNOVATION CENTRE
2018 IKEBUKURO VERTICAL VILLAGE
2018 HOUSE +O
2018 MOROCCO MINISTRY OF CULTURE AND COMMUNICATION HQ
2018 GORDON MATTA-CLARK EXHIBITION
2018 CHOPIN INTERNATIONAL MUSIC CENTRE
2018 CHITGAR BRIDGE-MASTERPLAN
2018 CAPITAL CENTRES IN RURAL AFRICA
2017 TUMO STUDIOS
2017 MICA MALL CABLE-CAR STATION
2012-18 JORDAN OFFICE BUILDING
2005 SHIBUYA OFFICE BLDG
2016 KUROISO LIBRARY
2014 STUDENT HOUSING

Mini-tectures

Being sustainable doesn’t just mean constructing new buildings with solar panels and thick insulation. It’s also about how we utilize existing buildings and spaces for longer periods of time. “Mini-tectures” are larger than furniture but smaller than typical buildings. These structures can be installed within existing buildings and voids to revitalize spaces and create new opportunities with minimal effort. Through “Mini-tectures,” NoRA aims to support the extended use of existing buildings while lowering the barriers for people to engage with architects and architectural interventions.

2023 CURIOSITY-GO-ROUND 02
2022 EBISU KITCHEN CORE
2021 CURIOSITY-GO-ROUND 01
2021 MEGURO RENOVATION
2020 CHARLOTTE DUMAS EXHIBITION
2020 SHIBUYA STREET FURNITURES
2018 IKEBUKURO RENOVATION

Researches

Every project starts with research, not only to understand but also to intentionally misunderstand or challenge the given assumptions. It’s an act of not seeking answers to questions, but rather questioning the existing answers, which in itself can be a form of design without a physical output. As the future of the world grows ever more uncertain, NoRA values research as an essential part of our practice.

2020 THE HAGUE INTERNATIONAL QUARTER
2018 RE-PLAY / AFRICAN CROSSROADS
2017 KISH ART FOUNDATION

Experimentations

Making architecture is an act of fictional narrative integrated into the daily social routines of existing stories, providing deviations and alternatives towards better future scenarios. Experimentations are vital part of this, not only for us but for the general public to preview and experience the fictional possibilities. NoRA uses various opportunities to test our thoughts and visions, through exhibitions, installations, events and workshops.

2022 TRACK/TRUCK
2022 WAGNER PROJECT / OITA
2022 WAGNER PROJECT / KANAZAWA
2020 CHARLOTTE DUMAS EXHIBITION
2020 SHIBUYA STREET FURNITURE
2019 WAGNER PROJECT / OITA
2018 RE-PLAY / AFRICAN CROSSROADS
2017 WAGNER PROJECT / YOKOHAMA
2017 EUROPEAN THINKBELT
2014 VENICE BIENNALE JAPAN PAVILLION