Namba Parks’ design is inspired by the transformative force of the elements found in nature. Among the project’s most striking features are its urban rooftop park with groves of trees, clusters of rock, lush lawns, ponds, waterfalls and outdoor terraces, and canyon promenade that mimics the natural curves and stratification sculpted by wind and water in stone. Designed as an armature, the canyon reinforces the projects connection with nature. The 3.7 hectare site of the former Osaka Stadium presented owner Nankai Electric Railway with a prime opportunity to create a true urban center for one of their city’s main entry points. Jerde, along with the architectural team from Obayashi Corporation, conceived the design concept, which resulted in the verdant sloping park that gradually ascends eight stories from the street. The man-made canyon divides the park and forms the primary pathway through the project. Lifestyle focused retail and entertainment venues rise effortlessly within each layer of the canyon interior. The project creates a corridor that connects the east and west edges of the site with urban circulation patterns. The two sides of the canyon are connected by glass bridges which become arcing tubes of light at night. “With Namba Parks, we have been able to take the next step in an important goal of the firm: to blur the line between nature and the built environment”, said Jon Jerde, founder and chairman of The Jerde Partnership.

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