The Izumi Learning Square, an academic building located on Meiji University’s Izumi Campus in Suginami-ku, Tokyo, has been awarded the 2025 Good Design Award, organized by the Japan Institute of Design Promotion (JDP).
Completed in March 2022 as part of Meiji University’s 140th anniversary commemorative projects, the Izumi Learning Square was designed to reflect and reinterpret the architectural philosophy of the former Second Building, which it replaced. The original structure, completed in 1960, was designed by renowned architect HORIGUCHI Sutemi, one of the founders of Meiji University's Department of Architecture. Known for its distinctive use of external slopes and open courtyards, the previous building showcased vibrant student activity and movement throughout the campus.
The Izumi Learning Square carries forward Horiguchi’s design principles, reimagined to meet the needs of contemporary educational programs and post-pandemic learning environments. The building integrates flexible, collaborative spaces that foster interaction among students while supporting diverse learning styles.
Regarding this award, the jury commented:
"The atrium, where the learning commons unfolds across multiple levels, is outstanding. While each student has their own learning environment, the spatial design fosters a relationship where they can catch glimpses of one another's learning scenes. The design follows the architectural philosophy of Sutemi Horiguchi, and successfully creates an integrated environment—from the landscape to the façade—where students can learn actively."
This marks the second time a Meiji University building has received the Good Design Award; the first was the Izumi Library, completed in May 2013, which won the award in 2012.
Additionally, the Izumi Learning Square received the prestigious BCS Award in 2024—presented by the Japan Federation of Construction Contractors—as the only university project to be honored that year, further underscoring its architectural excellence.
The glass-walled group boxes seen from the entrance lobby that make students’ activities look like showcases and motivate them to learn
Classroom in tiers with no desks or chairs, where out-of-the-box ideas and discussions are encouraged