Japanese architecture firm Kengo Kuma & Associates have designed a cultural complex in the city of Iiyama that’s closely informed by its snowy landscape. Joanna Kawecki writes.
April 18th, 2016
Coinciding with the construction of the Hokuriku Shinkansen high-speed railway line, the Iiyama City Cultural Exchange Centre was built to foster greater connection amongst members of the local community.
As a renowned snow and ski region, the city’s historical significance dates back as a 17th century trade town supporting new tourism, yet bearing rigorous winters, with winter snowfalls reaching up to 3 metres, and annual snowfall of 10 metres.
The design of the Iiyama City Cultural Exchange Centre is inspired by traditional Japanese snow folk dwellings dating back to the Edo Period. Its dramatic, geometric roofing references gang dukuri, which is typically found in medium-rise housing developments as a traditional method to protect homes from snow and secure local passages in winter.
The building’s striking wooden structure forms a geometric silhouette while complementing the natural surrounding landscape. Inside, high ceilings and wide glass window panels invite generous natural light into the open space.
Created over a six-year design process and an 18-month construction period, the cultural complex contains a theatre, auditorium, cafe and community centre held over three floors and spanning a total area of 4,000 square metres.
Utilising locally-sourced materials and local craftsmen to assist in construction, the building’s dominant wooden structure uses Iiyama timber while traditional Japanese washi paper can be found in the interior detailing.
Various waterproofing elements were considered and integrated into the building’s architecture, including waterproof paint, water-resistant steel sheets, and an external asphalt waterproof roof with protection concrete. Galvanised steel plates and TATEHAZE-metal were also used for the roofing.
The building’s wooden and steel interior was inspired by ‘Nakamichi’ passage design, seamlessly connecting each room and space and encouraging a diverse and flexible use of each location. Unlike most independent public spaces, the Iiyama City Cultural Exchange Centre is meant to be a social space, encouraging interaction, cultural engagement and connection.
For afar, the building’s silhouette integrates into the landscape as a hill itself, yet provides a complementary contrast to the new railway station running parallel. Its wood and steel interior and exterior is a marriage of modernity and tradition, while the design supports the area’s harsh winters and the need of the locals for a public space that promotes community and connection.
Kengo Kuma & Associates
kkaa.co.jp
A searchable and comprehensive guide for specifying leading products and their suppliers
Keep up to date with the latest and greatest from our industry BFF's!
Channelling the enchanting ambience of the Caffè Greco in Rome, Budapest’s historic Gerbeaud, and Grossi Florentino in Melbourne, Ross Didier’s new collection evokes the designer’s affinity for café experience, while delivering refined seating for contemporary hospitality interiors.
Journey alongside Australian designer Ross Didier as he introduces a new chapter in the magical folklore of his iconic FABLE Collection.
Marylou Cafaro’s first trendjournal sparked a powerful, decades-long movement in joinery designs and finishes which eventually saw Australian design develop its independence and characteristic style. Now, polytec offers all-new insights into the future of Australian design.
Sub-Zero and Wolf’s prestigious Kitchen Design Contest (KDC) has celebrated the very best in kitchen innovation and aesthetics for three decades now. Recognising premier kitchen design professionals from around the globe, the KDC facilitates innovation, style and functionality that pushes boundaries.
Hiroshi Nakamura is doing some of the most interesting work on the contemporary Japanese architectural scene. From residential to retail and urban to rural, his practice is one to keep an eye on for observers in Australia and elsewhere. Timothy Alouani-Roby visited the Tokyo studio to find out more.
Purposefully fluid to provide for different learning environments, Davenport Campbell’s early learning centre is conceptually focused on nurturing a holistic family experience.
The internet never sleeps! Here's the stuff you might have missed
Beau Fulwood and Alison Peach on returning to a low-tech, first-principles concept of design as a strategy to combat climate change.
The revival of Sydney’s Paddington suburb continues as architecture firm Scott Carver unveils ambitious plans to transform the historic Verona cinema into a mixed-use cultural hub.