Nippon Steel Kowa Real Estate Debuts “01-LabFactory” Brand, Opens First Urban Lab-and-Light-Manufacturing Facility in Kawasaki
Nippon Steel Kowa Real Estate has launched a new brand for leased R&D facilities and leased factories, “01-LabFactory,” and opened its first location, 01-LabFactory Kawasaki Nishiguchi, on the third floor of the Kowa Kawasaki Nishiguchi Building. The facility is a conversion of an existing office building and became operational on November 1.
The space is built to wet-lab specifications capable of supporting research at approximately Biosafety Level 2, and offers up to 15 leasable units equipped for local exhaust and water supply/drainage needs. Unit sizes range from 72–881㎡ (approx. 775–9,482 sq. ft.), allowing flexibility for startups through mid-sized companies.
Kawasaki is a major hub for R&D-driven industries, with a strong concentration of life science and advanced technology talent. Demand is rising among companies seeking to secure R&D functions through leased space, and the area around Kawasaki Station is gaining attention as a prime location for urban labs due to its researcher accessibility and proximity to surrounding industries.
A report by the Development Bank of Japan highlights that, while interest in leased lab space is increasing, challenges remain in development and operations, including limited operational data. The 01-LabFactory brand responds to these trends by offering an integrated R&D-plus-light-manufacturing platform that accommodates not only research activities but also small-batch production and pilot lines.
The brand name reflects the concept of creating “1” — new ideas and technologies — from “0,” a blank slate. By providing the necessary facilities and environment for research and production, the company aims to support corporate innovation.
As its second project, the company is planning a large-scale development in Takatsu Ward, Kawasaki City, with a Gross Floor Area of approx. 121,600㎡ (approx. 1,308,000 sq. ft.), slated for completion in spring 2028. The project will integrate logistics facilities and accommodate a wide range of uses.
Key Facts
Property Name: 01-LabFactory Kawasaki Nishiguchi
Developer: Nippon Steel Kowa Real Estate Co., Ltd.
Location: 66-2 Horikawa-cho, Saiwai-ku, Kawasaki City, Kanagawa; 3F, Kowa Kawasaki Nishiguchi Building
Nearest Stations: JR “Kawasaki” Station (approx. 7 minutes on foot) / Keikyu Main Line “Keikyu Kawasaki” Station (approx. 6 minutes on foot)
Opening Date: November 1, 2025