kw+hg architects rounds out public library at musashino place

kw+hg architects rounds out public library at musashino place
photo by shimizu ken
all images courtesy of kw+hg architects

‘musashino place’ is a public facility offering support to the entire community of the tokyo suburb from which it takes its name. designed by kw+hg architects, the building functions primarily as a library, but also provides spaces for youth activities, lifelong learning, and civic events. located near the musashisakai station, it is easily accessed by a wide population, and is complemented by the adjacent kyōnan fureai hiroba park.

the structure is organized as a repetitive framework that different programs can occupy flexibly. voids between rooms, and windows to the exterior, are consistently treated with radiused corners. breaks in the floors create spacious double and triple height cavities throughout the building, producing a more public environment.

reading areas are left open with plentiful light throughout
photo by shimizu ken

the library collection includes more than 140,000 books and 600 periodical titles as well as a 400 seat reading area. there are six community rooms ranging to serve between 10-200 people at a time, with one multi-purpose exhibition space. other resources include music, dance, craft, and cooking studios, aimed to engage youth with various activities. through its openness and mixture of available functions, musashino place fosters social exchange.

photo by shimizu ken

photo by shimizu ken

certain areas are dedicated to youth activities
photo by shimizu ken

openings between rooms and to the exterior are consistently treated with radiused corners
photo by shimizu ken

double and triple height spaces produce an openness throughout the building
photos by shimizu ken

photo by shimizu ken

large windows create a visual dialogue between interior functions and the city’s context
photos by shimizu ken

photo by shimizu ken

project info:

location: musashino city, tokyo, japan
completion: 03.2011
program: library, teens support center, lifelong education center, civic action support center
site area: 2,166.2 sqm
building area: 1,571.47 sqm
total floor area: 9,809.76 sqm
photography: shimizu ken