SPOTLIGHT ON: IMCC TOKYO 2025
The IMCC in Tokyo, Japan, 2025
Jared Mensah, Director of Greenway Associates and our cultural industries expert, recently represented us at the International Museum Construction Congress (IMCC) in Tokyo this April.
The IMCC is an esteemed gathering that unites leading voices from the global museum and design community to explore the latest trends, share insights, and discuss innovative projects in the cultural sector.
Day 1: An Architecture Walking tour with Haruka Soga
IMCC Tokyo Day 1: A Journey Through Architecture
The first day in Tokyo began with an insightful architecture walking tour led by Haruka Soga, where Jared was captivated by the unique interplay of modern and traditional design in the city. One unexpected highlight came during a fascinating talk on 100-year-old concrete—a subject that might sound niche but provided a deep dive into materials with lasting impact in the architecture world.
Jared shared, “Tokyo is a beautiful city, and the people are even more beautiful. They are sophisticated yet simple in a way that leaves a lasting impression.” The elegance of the city left him inspired, setting the tone for what would be an enriching few days.
IMCC Tokyo Day 2: Learning and Inspiration at Nezu Museum
Day two took Jared to the renowned Nezu Museum, where he delved into the projects and philosophy of Kengo Kuma & Associates. The discussions around the landmark Powerhouse project in Parramatta, Australia, as well as insights into the Centre Pompidou’s ongoing developments, offered a broad international perspective on museum design.
A particularly memorable moment came from the presentation by Noriyoshi Kitagawa, who explored the role of play in designing for spiritual spaces. This session was a perfect blend of design theory and practical application, sparking discussions about the delicate balance between function, form, and emotional resonance in cultural spaces.