Community-Focused Architecture: Oshigome Base by HAYATO KOMATSU ARCHITECTS

Designing Spaces for People and Nature

Oshigome Base, a project by HAYATO KOMATSU ARCHITECTS, is a remarkable example of community-focused architecture located in Kure City, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. This mixed-use building, completed in 2023, combines the functions of office, residence, and a gathering space for the local community. The design strategically blends the natural environment with the built structure, fostering a sense of connection between the people, their surroundings, and the architecture itself.

Harmonizing Architecture with the Landscape

The design of Oshigome Base begins with the roof, a key element that creates a connection between the building and its surrounding environment. The roof is not a simple feature but a thoughtful combination of two overlapping elements. One is a grass-roofed shed, designed to extend the natural green landscape from the nearby reservoir to the mountain range. The other is a main roof, crafted to block direct sunlight from the south and catch the strong winds coming from the river below, ensuring that the building’s interior remains cool and comfortable.

Blending Functionality with Community Engagement

One of the key features of Oshigome Base is its ability to serve as both a private residence and a public gathering place. The building’s lower floor includes a multi-purpose room that opens up to the garden. Rather than using a traditional wall, the space is separated from the garden through carefully arranged plantings, allowing the space to feel open and connected to the outdoors. This innovative design allows the building to interact with the community, as the multi-purpose room is intended for various local activities and even serves as a disaster prevention center for the area.

A Space for Connection and Interaction

The overarching goal of Oshigome Base is to create a space that fosters genuine interaction between people. The building functions as a semi-public place, where the community can gather and interact, much like the gardens of traditional private homes. This dynamic space supports the local community by providing a venue for events and activities, promoting multi-generational engagement and interaction.

The garden surrounding the building plays a significant role in this vision. As the garden grows, it is hoped that it will become a “community garden,” where local people can come together to enjoy the space, grow plants, and engage in shared activities. The garden and the building as a whole are designed to gradually add vibrancy and color to the town, reinforcing the connection between the residents and their environment.

A Model for Future Community Architecture

Oshigome Base represents a new approach to architecture, one that prioritizes the well-being of the community and its connection to the natural world. The design blends functionality with a strong sense of place, making it a space that is not just for living but for community interaction. By creating a place that is both private and public, Oshigome Base exemplifies the potential of community-focused architecture to bring people together while fostering a sense of belonging and environmental stewardship.

All Photographs are works of Toshiyuki Yano