timber clad community center in hiroshima by UID

timber clad community center in hiroshima by UID
photo © koji fujii / nacasa & partners inc.
all images courtesy of UID

local practice UID has completed COCOCHI comfort gallery ‘UTSUWA’ a project that involves the renovation of an existing structure in suburban hiroshima, japan. the community center hosts a range seminars and events, providing a much needed destination for individuals and organizations to congregate.

the design is characterized by repeated wooden louvers that enclose a shaded volume at ground level, serving as a buffer zone between internal and external space. throughout the plan, areas of plantation allow the building to establish a direct and intimate relationship with nature. the use of timber continues internally with plywood furnishings and fittings incorporated within a studio that is articulated across two levels. a staircase leads to a comfortable lounge area situated at the uppermost storey, which provides a relaxed and hospitable environment for its visitors.

repeated wooden louvers enclose a shaded area at ground level
photo © koji fujii / nacasa & partners inc.

the volume serves as a buffer zone between internal and external space
photo © koji fujii / nacasa & partners inc.

the scheme is envisioned as a destination for individuals and organizations to congregate
photo © koji fujii / nacasa & partners inc.

areas of plantation allow the building to establish a direct and intimate relationship with nature
photo © koji fujii / nacasa & partners inc.

the use of timber continues internally with plywood furnishings and fittings
photo © koji fujii / nacasa & partners inc.

a staircase leads to a comfortable lounge area situated at the uppermost storey
photo © koji fujii / nacasa & partners inc.

the lounge area provides a relaxed and hospitable environment for its visitors
photo © koji fujii / nacasa & partners inc.

the studio illuminated at night
photo © koji fujii / nacasa & partners inc.

photo © koji fujii / nacasa & partners inc.

the community scheme hosts a range seminars and events
photo © koji fujii / nacasa & partners inc.

the site of ‘comfort gallery’ prior to its renovation
photo © UID

project info:

project title: COCOCHI comfort gallery ‘UTSUWA’
location: fukuyama, hiroshima, japan
principal use: community center
completed: 2013
site area: 404.81 sqm
total floor area: 109.51 sqm
structure: steel structure
structural design: hidekazu ikeda
garden-build: toshiya ogino