Danchi—which translates literally to "group land" but has come to refer to Japan's public housing blocks—emerged in the 1960s as the country was faced with rapid modernization and urbanization. A period of high-growth, the government built these apartment complexes in many suburban areas to offset the housing demand of a rapidly growing population. 

Modeled after the apartment blocks built by the Soviet government, danchi were made from western materials and western designs; in their time, they were considered the height of modernity. Today, fewer and fewer Japanese live in the gradually aging housing, preferring other models such as single-family homes or condos. Though many of the buildings sit dilapidated and depopulated, they remain tranquil architectural giants of the cityscape. 

Exploring over 40 of these large sites, New Zealand photographer Cody Ellingham has captured the Tokyo apartments for his new series, Danchi Dreams. While originally drawn by an aesthetic fascination, Ellginham's year-long photographic survey captures the history and social significance of these residences. "There’s a certain kind of nostalgia in these places" Ellingham says. "The look of it is cold concrete, but deep down, you find glimmers of hope, playgrounds, mural art, community facilities, and the original dream: that tomorrow will be better than yesterday."

His work is currently on display at Takiguchi Ateliera, a former factory turned gallery in Tokyo’s Koto-ku district. For more information, visit here.