NeoYokoto
A monolithic spatial identity and wayfinding system for a subterranean cultural district in Osaka.
Neo Holdings
Spatial Architecture & Systems
8 weeks
3 Workstreams
The strategic thesis
NeoYokoto is an underground architectural precinct integrating experimental culinary studios, audio listening rooms, and contemporary gallery spaces. Arca was commissioned to author the holistic spatial identity, physical bronze-cast wayfinding signage, and an archival 240-page hardcover publication.
How do you design wayfinding that is immediately legible to an international audience without diluting the subterranean, low-lit ambiance of cast-concrete architecture?
We developed a tactile signage language rendered in patinated bronze and raw milled steel. Typefaces were set in high-contrast optical weights that catch ambient slit lighting. The companion publication documents the structural pour with stark monochrome photography and minimal Japanese/English bilingual columns.
Monthly visitors guided through subterranean levels
Monograph published and distributed globally
Extraneous decorative elements applied to architecture
Subterranean acoustic lounge wayfinding & cast bronze plates.
Monograph editorial spread layout on uncoated Japanese stock.
“The spatial clarity Arca brought to our concrete halls transformed raw infrastructure into an evocative cultural landmark.”
Kenji Sato
Development Lead · Neo Holdings