The history of Mori Building is one of constantly challenging conventions. Almost 40 years ago when we had just started the ARK Hills redevelopment project, many criticized us, referring to it as the "destruction of the city". Now, 21 years after its completion, ARK Hills, a mature district, is enveloped in greenery. We did not destroy the city, but we challenged outmoded concepts and demolished what was once considered standard.

Many hesitate to step into uncharted territory, but a redevelopment project demands extensive and repeated dialogue with those people in order to ultimately arrive at a shared vision and overcome countless regulatory and legal barriers. Our job, therefore, is not an easy one; however, in this mission lies the raison d'être of Mori Building.

For Japan and particularly Tokyo, to survive in this age of global competition, it is necessary to construct an appropriate stage on which the knowledge-information society can truly perform. A stage unfazed by the specter of earthquakes. An arena with the inspiration of greenery and culture close at hand. A venue that fosters interaction among the people of the world, leading to inspiration. Our "Hills" series offers a new global urban context.

Roppongi Hills received even higher acclaim around the globe than here in Japan, and I find it extremely symbolic that the rest of the world was first to grasp the significance of this development. For Mori Building, the "world" is our benchmark and the "future" shall pass judgment. We are ready to challenge conventions and prepared to alter what served us well in the past in order to advance further, setting our sights on the world and the future of cities. Being the eternal challenger and constant innovator – this is the ideal to which Mori Building aspires.