TD atelier's self-build fishing factory in japan with distinctive triangular roof

the kyoto based architect, TD atelier, has completed a small factory in the fishing village of kajiga in japan. the small village is home to around 180 people and fishing has been an integral part of the community for generations. this new factory, ‘kajika no aburi’, has been built to help develop the small fishing business for the community. the project involved the renovation and extension of a 60 year old hut near the sea and has been self-built by the architect, architectural students and fishermen alike.

the triangular form of the factory facing out towards the pacific ocean

all images courtesy of TD atelier

the distinctive triangular roof is designed by the architect to ventilate smoke from the fire at high-level windows. windows are strategically placed on the triangular form to provide fresh air at low level and gain natural light at high level. the interior of the extension is characterized by the timber frame but also incorporates metal plating on the walls to achieve fire resistance.

low windows to gain fresh air and skylights to provide natural light

in the renovation of the existing hut, the wooden beams have been left exposed to articulate the existing structure. the blue colored floor has been finished using fibre-reinforced plastic and marine-quality paint to provide a more durable surface for ease of cleaning. with it’s unique shape, the design of the factory aims to create a new identity for the small fishing community. this project also shows what can be achieved when communities work together to self-build a very functional space that will be used for years to come.

fishing ropes are used in the extension to open the windows 

metal plates have been implemented internally to provide fire resistance

the corners of the walls and floor are rounded to make them easier to clean

in the renovation, the existing wooden beams and pillars have been left exposed

the project was entirely self-built, here the final works are completed by fishermen’s wives

the extension is articulated with a blue triangular roof

view of the factory at night against the mountain backdrop

a record of the self-build construction by architects, students and fishermen

plans and site plan

section

project info:

project name: factory of ‘kajika no aburi’

location: kajiga, japan

architect: TD atelier​

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: lynne myers | designboom