CARPORT SC HONORED WITH THE COMMISSIONER OF THE JAPAN PATENT OFFICE AWARD AT THE 2026 LOCAL COMMENDATION FOR INVENTION

Delivering a comprehensive transformation from load-bearing structure to a minimalist design language, the Carport SC lineup by LIXIL Corporation has proudly received the prestigious Commissioner of the Japan Patent Office Award. This recognition sets a new architectural benchmark for flat-roof carports, seamlessly integrating with modern living spaces.

Hero Visual – Carport SC: A breakthrough in design, redefining exterior shelters with a prestigious collection of global awards.

On November 5, 2026, in Tokyo, Japan, LIXIL Corporation officially announced that its flat-roof carport, “Carport SC” (registered design title: Pioneering Design for Flat-Roof Carports), was honored with the Commissioner of the Japan Patent Office Award at the 2026 Local Commendation for Invention (Kanto Region), organized by the Japan Institute of Invention and Innovation (JIII).

1. Rooted in the Desire to Harmonize Shelters with Architecture

Carport SC achieves a completely flat ceiling surface that blends seamlessly with building architecture by utilizing extruded aluminum panels as the roof itself, turning the panels into the primary load-bearing structure. This innovation eliminates the secondary structural bracing rafters traditionally considered mandatory in conventional carports.

Historically, carport products prioritized weather protection and cost efficiency over aesthetics. Exposed mechanical framing, visible fasteners, and exterior drain pipes created visual clutter, disrupting the clean facade of modern homes and neighborhood landscapes.

At a time when curved (R-shape) roofs dominated the market, the debut of Carport SC’s minimalist flat-roof profile fundamentally shifted residential exterior trends. Industry professionals commended the design as a pioneer that established “The New Standard for Carports.“

2. Three Key Breakthroughs Setting the New Standard

2.1. Breakthrough 01: An Absolutely Flat Ceiling (Eliminating Secondary Rafters)

Carport SC eliminates the previously indispensable secondary rafter framing. By suspending the roof panels directly from the upper main beam assembly, the underside presents a smooth, uninterrupted surface resembling a premium architectural ceiling.

Breakthrough 01 – Fully flat ceiling featuring optional wood-grain finishes and integrated recessed LED lighting, transforming functional parking into an elegant porch space.

2.2. Breakthrough 02: Eliminating Visual Clutter (Concealed Fasteners and Drainage)

All rainwater downspouts and technical fasteners are concealed directly inside the beams and support columns. Viewed from below, the structure is devoid of unnecessary protrusions, preserving strict horizontal and vertical alignments true to Japanese minimalist design principles.

Breakthrough 02 – Total elimination of visual noise: Bolts and internal drainage pipes are seamlessly housed within the beam and column profiles.

2.3. Breakthrough 03: Balancing Aesthetics and Engineering (Ultra-Thin 40mm Aluminum Roof with Heat Shielding & Drainage)

Despite an ultra-slim 40mm roof profile, Carport SC incorporates a calculated technical slope ensuring rapid rainwater collection and runoff. Solid aluminum roof panels block direct solar radiation—reducing internal vehicle cabin temperatures—while hiding fallen leaves and roof debris from view when seen from beneath.

Breakthrough 03 – A balanced fusion of an ultra-slim 40mm profile and high-performance solar heat reflection, delivering durable protection for modern residences.

3. Global Design Award Portfolio

Alongside the Commissioner of the Japan Patent Office Award, Carport SC has earned international acclaim across top-tier design competitions:

• Good Design Award 2017 (BEST 100): Selected among the top 100 designs in Japan during its debut year.

• iF Design Award 2018: Celebrated by Germany’s prestigious international design forum for its minimalist execution and functionality.

• German Design Award Nominee 2019: Recognized by the German Design Council, reserved for products of proven global design merit.

• JIDA Design Museum Selection: Inducted by the Japan Industrial Designers’ Association as an exemplary design contribution to contemporary society and architecture.

Design Awards Portfolio – Carport SC transcends visual appeal to stand as a breakthrough technological innovation.

Continuing to receive the commendation from the Japan Patent Office in 2026 clearly demonstrates that Carport SC is not merely a striking design, but a breakthrough technological innovation officially protected under Design Registration No. 1591108.

4. Statements from the LIXIL Development Team

Design Team Representative — Mr. Shingo Niwa

“I am deeply honored that our product has received such high praise for its design within an award program celebrating technological innovation. The concept of a carport designed specifically to blend seamlessly with residential architecture existed in theory, but had no practical precedent. In developing Carport SC, we dissected home architecture down to structural lines and massing, continuously asking ourselves: ‘How can a carport truly become one with the house?’ Thanks to inventive contributions across our team, we created an entirely unprecedented carport form. LIXIL remains committed to pioneering products that establish fresh standards and enduring value for modern life.”

— Shingo Niwa (LHT Design Center, Design & Brand Division, LIXIL)

Product Development Representative — Mr. Kenji Osaki

“Receiving the prestigious Commissioner of the Japan Patent Office Award is an exceptional milestone. Bringing this unprecedented structural concept to life involved overcoming rigorous engineering challenges—a commercial success made possible only through cross-departmental passion and ingenuity. Since introducing the single-vehicle model in 2017, Carport SC has consistently broadened its portfolio as it approaches its 10th anniversary next year. The product has grown beyond initial design admiration into trusted daily utility, driving industry shifts. We express sincere gratitude to our customers and will continue pushing boundaries to build solutions that transcend Carport SC.”

— Kenji Osaki (Exterior Development Department, Exterior Business Unit, LIXIL)

5. About the Local Commendation for Invention (Japan)

Inaugurated in 1921 by the Japan Institute of Invention and Innovation (JIII), this award recognizes regional innovations contributing to technological progress and industrial growth across Japan. Divided into eight regional blocks (Hokkaido, Tohoku, Kanto, Chubu, Kinki, Chugoku, Shikoku, and Kyushu), it honors engineers, designers, and R&D specialists responsible for outstanding patents, utility models, and registered designs.

6. References & Consultation Details

• Original press release from LIXIL Newsroom: 令和8年度地方発明表彰にて、「カーポートSC」が 特許庁長官賞を受賞 (https://newsroom.lixil.com/ja/2026110501)

•  Award information portal of the Japan Institute of Invention and Innovation: 公益社団法人 発明協会 地方発明表彰 (https://koueki.jiii.or.jp/hyosho/chihatsu/chihatsu.html)

• Official industrial design record: Japan Patent Office (JPO) – Design Registration No. 1591108.

CONSULTATION & QUOTATION INQUIRIES FOR CARPORT SC

Homeowners, architects, and trade partners interested in Carport SC solutions (available in 1-car, 2-car, and illuminated extensions) may reach out for technical documentation and installation support:

• 📥 Download Catalogues & Technical Drawings: Visit TOSTEM Technical Portal: https://tostemvietnam.com/vi/ho-tro-ky-thuat/

• 📞 Schedule a Site Survey & Request a Quote: Contact TOSTEM Aluminum & Exterior Specialists:

  • Hotline: 0915 459 933

  • Website: https://tostemvietnam.com

Showroom Locations:

• Hanoi Showroom: 46 Bich Cau, O Cho Dua Ward

• HCMC Showroom: 218 Bis Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, Xuan Hoa Ward