Mita Campus First Building Report: Retro Charm, Renewed Spaces

Among the structures on Mita Campus, the First Building stands out as a historic, retro building constructed in the early Showa period (1937). But did you know that parts of its interior have recently undergone a makeover?

While retaining its nostalgic charm, the building continues to evolve. Let’s take a look at its transformation floor by floor, from the 1st to the 3rd floor, each offering a completely unique atmosphere.

Behind the central staircase on the first floor, distinctive glass-grid compartments face each other across the hallway. These spaces are actually repurposed telephone booths that once stood here.

Originally, wooden telephone booths were set up for Keio students to use. However, with the widespread adoption of mobile phones, the public payphones inside were removed by the early 2010s, leaving only the structural frames behind. These unique white frames remain today as a nostalgic reminder of the past.

For a time, newspaper and magazine racks were placed around the central staircase. Recently, however, these remaining telephone frames were redesigned into private workstations—ideal spaces for online meetings and quiet study. Located near the classrooms, they are conveniently accessible for students during breaks between classes.

In front of each private workstation, several single-seater chairs and side tables have been placed, creating a welcoming spot to take a break.

Keio students can be seen bringing their laptops inside to work or attend online classes, making great use of these secluded individual booths. Each private booth is equipped with a desk, a chair, and power outlets, allowing students to work comfortably while charging their digital devices.

Directly facing the central staircase on the second floor is a spacious study area. Natural light pouring in through large windows and views of surrounding greenery make a striking impression.

Houseplants are thoughtfully arranged on the desks. Along the wall, there is a lounge area featuring single-seater chairs, side tables, and potted plants, similar to the seating on the first floor.

This study area also serves as a charging hub. In addition to standard power outlets, desks are equipped with wireless chargers that charge smartphones simply by placing them down. These chargers also double as desk lamps—a welcome feature for anyone working on digital devices.

Directly in front of the central staircase on the third floor, you will find a space lined with single-seater armchairs. Sitting in one of these chairs and looking forward, you realize the space opens up into an atrium overlooking the second floor—a signature architectural feature of the First Building centered around the staircase.

The armchairs are designed for comfortable solo lounging, and Keio students can often be seen unwinding here after class or during lunch breaks.

Though times change, the First Building preserves the timeless character and atmosphere of each floor while adapting to modern needs, enriching campus life for Keio students.

Note: The information in this article is current as of 2026.