With over a third of its population above the age of 65, Japan has the oldest population of any country in the world. To meet the growing needs of seniors, innovative companies across the country have created elder-focused developments and programs that center core values of dignified, social, and active aging—including Park Wellstate, the senior division of housing firm Mitsui Fudosan, which has completed four major properties across Tokyo and Chiba since its 2017 launch.

Enveloped in 2,200 square meters of private gardens, Park Wellstate’s flagship residence in Tokyo’s Nishi-Azabu district threads biophilic design from the ground plane through a 36-floor, 421-unit tower overlooking Minato City. Developed through careful study of solar exposure, the building’s massing was shifted to carve out a central courtyard sheltered from urban activity—a respite for residents and a stopover spot for migratory birds. Throughout this sanctuary, the concepts of seisui (lush greenery and water) and kasane (layered colors and textures) are woven through the design, which leads visitors along a meandering, stone-lined path bordered with sakura and evergreens, culminating in a tea pavilion and series of seating terraces that overlook a raised central pool.

Rectilinear structures, furnishings, and pavers elegantly contrast with the organic forms of paths and planting beds that flow alongside the pool, including smaller areas for individual reflection and larger terraces for group activities and socialization. On-structure and indoor landscapes were designed in collaboration with Nikken Sekkei’s housing and interiors divisions, which include a range of wellness-oriented spaces including a pool, spa, and rooftop terrace.

Altogether, the site boasts a 50% open space ratio and over 260 trees, located just a 13-minute walk from three Tokyo Metro stations. SWA previously designed the landscape for Mitsui Fudosan’s second Park Wellstate residence in Kamogawa along the Chiba coastline, which opened in 2021.