2024.10.25 Noriko Higashi
We held a round table discussion at the LPA office to review the Musashi-Kosugi city walk that took place in early October. (Unfortunately, I forgot to take any photos!) As we walked through different areas of Musashi-Kosugi, each with its unique characteristics (development areas, old shopping streets and residential areas, and the area connecting Musashi-Kosugi and Shin-Maruko stations), we discovered a variety of issues, challenges, and positive aspects, both specific to each area and common across them. It was surprising to find such diverse characteristics within walking distance of the same station.
One common issue we observed in all areas was excessive brightness and excessive darkness. While the glare from streetlights and security lights is not unique to this city, we found that even in quiet residential areas and newly built high-rise apartments, there was an abundance of glaring light.
During the discussion, we heard various concerns about lighting in dark areas. For instance, participants mentioned that it was difficult and scary to enter the back of first-floor parking lots due to insufficient lighting, and that the lighting was too bright at eye level but dark at the feet. Some also pointed out that trees had grown too large, blocking the lights.
Additionally, at Musashi-Kosugi Station’s bus rotary, the color temperature differences between the bus stop lights and the streetlights created an inharmonious space. This issue was attributed to different management entities within a single space.
While there were positive comments about the beautiful night view of the high-rise buildings, representing Musashi-Kosugi’s development, others pointed out that the clouds above were also illuminated, indicating light pollution.
The discussion also touched on the necessity of crown lighting for buildings. Although it can serve as an icon, many participants felt that the color temperature difference between the spill light from the interior and the crown lighting was discordant, and that it might not be suitable as the overall lighting for the tower. The consensus seemed to be that it might be unnecessary from a design standpoint.
Overall, the streetlights in the city were described as white and excessively bright, with some being burnt out. The lighting in public spaces such as pedestrian overpasses and rotaries was also deemed unsatisfactory. However, there were also examples of lighting that showed consideration for people and the city, creating a sense of comfort and enjoyment. It seems that the participants discovered a lot of things in the new and old parts of Musashi-Kosugi.
The salon provides an opportunity for all participants to re-summarize their opinions after the city walk and share them with other groups. Even those who were unable to join the city walk can participate in the salon online. Please feel free to join us. (Noriko Higashi)
