hiromu nakanishi architects + masashi ogihara architects build nishikimachi secret naval air base museum in japan

the ‘nishikimachi secret base museum’ by hiromu nakanishi architects, in collaboration with masashi ogihara architects, is located on the relics of the hitoyoshi naval air base in the town of nishiki, japan. the two japanese architecture offices have treated the entire site of the base as an open air museum, together with the runway ruins and underground shelters. the main building itself takes the form of an airplane wing frame, constructed using lightweight timber frames and topped with a dynamic tilted roof. 

all images courtesy of hiromu nakanishi architects

hiromu nakanishi architects and masashi ogihara architects have considered the entire site as an open-air museum that takes visitors through the runway ruins and underground trenches of the hitoyoshi naval air base. the main facility is considered as an introduction to the entire museum, and conveys the history of world war II through exhibitions, guided tours, and VR experiences. the 152 sqm building comprises a lightweight wooden frame that resembles an airplane wing, intended to highlight the function of the site as a military base.

a practical and lightweight structure, the long, linear building is built using local cedar of small dimensions to ensure quick and affordable construction. its exterior is clad is charred wood, allowing it to blend within its surroundings, while inside, the natural wooden hues create a warm and welcoming interior.

project info:

name: nishikimachi secret base museum

architect: hiromu nakanishi architects in collaboration with masashi ogihara architects

location: nishiki-machi, kuma, kumamoto prefecture, japan

use: sightseeing base facility + museum

structure: wooden

site area: 6862.76 m2

total floor area: 152.37 m2