In 2022, Masaaki Hisatake Architects unveiled the Nakagawa Century Memorial Hall in Yamatotakada, Japan, a multifaceted complex encompassing headquarters offices, a training center, and a public cafeteria. The project, situated within a historical site dating back to Japan’s Nara period, seamlessly integrates traditional Japanese design principles with modern sustainability concepts.
Design Philosophy
Embracing the ethos of “traditional Japanese wisdom,” the Nakagawa Century Memorial Hall aims to immerse visitors in nature’s elements—greenery, water, wind, and light. The site, spanning approximately 100 meters, comprises two interconnected buildings surrounding a central courtyard. Traditional design elements such as Engawa (edge space with eaves), skylights, and the use of groundwater contribute to a sustainable environment powered by natural energy.
Creating a Harmonious Environment
The architectural layout prioritizes connectivity with nature, evident in the extensive use of glass to foster visual engagement with the surrounding garden. The interior spaces seamlessly blend with the courtyard, creating a cohesive indoor-outdoor experience. Water features and strategically placed greenery enhance the ambiance, while slit windows facilitate natural ventilation and airflow circulation.
Embracing Nature with All Senses
At the heart of the design is the concept of experiencing nature with all senses. The Engawa design controls solar radiation, while a cool pit harnesses groundwater temperature for natural ventilation. Visitors are enveloped in gentle breezes, soft sunlight, and the aroma of wood, promoting a sense of well-being and tranquility.
Structural Innovation and Material Selection
The building’s structure features a steel frame with a 12.5-meter portal frame, offering flexibility in spatial configuration. Exterior walls utilize Portland cement with glass fiber net reinforcement, while diatomaceous earth finishes on the first floor create a seamless transition with the garden soil. Locally sourced Yoshino cedar furniture adds a touch of warmth and authenticity to the interior spaces.
Smart Office Solutions
Incorporating cutting-edge technology, the Nakagawa Century Memorial Hall operates as a smart office facility. Utilizing IoT (Internet of Things) devices, including smart lighting and air conditioning controls, as well as face recognition and sound masking systems, the complex ensures a non-contact environment for optimal efficiency and comfort.
In essence, the Nakagawa Century Memorial Hall serves as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of tradition, sustainability, and modernity, embodying Japan’s rich architectural heritage while embracing the challenges of the future.
