Building a “Safe” apartment That Offers “Peace of Mind”

Exterior of J-Lapis NANBA

I was personally affected by the destruction brought about by the Great Hanshin Earthquake; the disaster that unfolded before me exceeded my wildest nightmares. This is why I felt strongly that newly-built apartment must not collapse during an earthquake. However, among the construction companies that I researched, it was only Takamatsu Corporation who properly answered my needs. Other companies were of the attitude that ‘it is safe as long as it complies with the Building Standards Act’, but I was not convinced that this alone was sufficient and so I did not feel reassured.

Takamatsu Corporation, on the other hand, informed me that “the earthquake resistance of the Building Standard Act is determined only by the lateral vibrations, and so a further strengthening of 15% is necessary when considering the longitudinal vibrations as well.” They gave me a tour of a 35-year-old property as well as a site under construction, and dealt with me in a sincere manner through always responding politely to my persistent questions. This gradually led to me feeling secure about working with Takamatsu Corporation.

To be honest, I am an amateur when it comes to construction, and so I do not know the difference between earthquake resistance grades 1 and 2, and I cannot sense first-hand whether there is value for money just because the cost is more expensive. Once the apartment is built, however, it will remain for 40 to 50 years. I thought that as I do not know what may happen during that time, it would be better to put in place all possible countermeasures. Also, in regards to the invisible notion of being ‘safe’, I could have some peace of mind by deepening my understanding of the criteria for earthquake resistance grades, and I feel the fact that I can provide this to tenants with confidence is a real advantage.

• 

  Entrance pathway of apartment

• 

  Entrance (from the main entrance)

• 

  Entrance (from the hall)