Building of the Day:Japan Society

Designed by architects Junzo Yoshimura and George G. Shimamoto, Japan Society was the first building by a leading Japanese architect in New York City. The building opened to the public on September 13, 1907, and became a New York City landmark in 2011. The building combines sleek, modern forms with traditional Japanese elements including indoor gardens, reflecting pool, and waterfall. The elegance and simplicity of the exterior shape of the black facade retains a Japanese sensibility, while using American materials. Furnished with a superb colleciton of tables, chairs, and benches designed by the master Japanese-American woodworker George Nakashima, the facilities include a 262-seat theater, art gallery, library, conference facilities, and over three floors of office spaces.

Architect: Junzo Yoshimura in association with Gruzen and Partners