YKK AP30 Building Achieves "ZEB" and "WELL Certification" Platinum

The YKK AP30 Building was completed in 2024 with the concept of an "Office in the Woods," as a building that considers the natural environment and the health and well-being of its employees. In November 2024, it received the highest rank of 6 stars in the BELS evaluation (*3) to achieve "ZEB," and in November 2025, it obtained the highest rank "Platinum" in the "WELL Certification," a global standard evaluation system that incorporates the evaluation axis of human health and well-being into building design and operation.

While high thermal insulation performance of the building envelope is important for achieving "ZEB," "WELL Certification" recommends securing openings to take in natural light and provide views. Therefore, obtaining both certifications requires the building to have openings while maintaining high thermal insulation. At the YKK AP30 Building, the company's own full-height window for buildings, "SYSTEMA 31," was adopted to realize a bright and open space, while pursuing the coexistence of "reducing environmental impact" and a "healthy and comfortable office" by maximizing the energy efficiency of the entire building, resulting in acquiring the highest standards of both certifications.

It is said that "people spend 90% of their lives indoors" (*4). By optimizing the workplace environment, which accounts for a large portion of this time, the company has developed a place where employees can maximize their performance safely, securely, and comfortably.

As an energy-saving technology for the entire building, the space is configured to effectively utilize environments such as wind, light, and water to properly enjoy natural energy. Regarding the wind environment, the building shape features deep eaves and a pitched roof to make it easier to take in the wind, while natural ventilation and air exchange are possible through natural ventilation windows such as the "EXIMA 31 Balance Way". Incorporating the wisdom of "Kainyo," a traditional homestead forest in Toyama Prefecture that protects homes from cold winter winds and blizzards, as well as summer sun and hot winds by taking in the region's unique seasonal wind "Ainokaze," the planting plan is endowed with design and functions that can control wind and light.

In terms of the light environment, 2.4m-high full-height windows in all directions of the office area and high-side lights that deliver light to the center of the building were installed, reducing daytime lighting power while ensuring brightness. YKK AP's "SYSTEMA 31" windows for buildings are adopted for these openings. An insulated structure using double glazing with a 12mm intermediate air layer minimizes heat transfer from the window surface. Taking in natural light to the maximum with slim frames while significantly reducing the air conditioning load greatly contributed to achieving "ZEB."

In the water environment, artesian well water on the premises is used for air conditioning, etc. Because the groundwater of the Kurobe River alluvial fan is abundant and maintains a stable water temperature throughout the year, using well water as a heat source for air conditioning equipment demonstrates a high energy-saving effect. In addition, solar power generation was introduced as an energy-creation technology to generate energy. Through these initiatives, the annual energy balance is designed to be zero or less.

Aiming for people spending time in the building to be in good physical and mental condition, a space that is close to people was pursued, from physical environments such as air, light, and water to meals and mental health. Designed with all directions of the building as the front, the view opens up no matter where you are in the office area, with the scenery of Kurobe spreading beyond the windows. As an "Office in the Woods" in the Ikuji district of Kurobe City, it regulates the physical and mental environment by feeling the soft light and connection with nature throughout the year.

As part of "EBW" (*5), an autonomous work style, the cafeteria (employee dining hall) on the 3rd floor uses local seasonal ingredients and seasonings, and provides safe and secure meals by displaying nutritional components and allergy information. In addition, staircase art depicting the Kurobe River and mountain ridges drawn on glass surfaces foster a sense of attachment and familiarity with the region while feeling close to nature. To reduce the gender gap, "OiTr," a private room installation-type infrastructure that provides free sanitary products, was introduced for the first time in the Hokuriku region. It pursues ease of working for each individual and aims to improve well-being.