SP22 - ARCH 413 Advanced Architectural Design Studio - Micro Ruralism - Junko Yamamoto

Micro Ruralism Ro g er W il l iam s U n iver si t y ARCH 413 Advanced Archi tectural Desi gn Studi o, SP 2 0 2 2 Junko Yam am o to Adjunct Professor of Archi tec tu r e

目次 1. マイクロ・ルーラリズムについて 2. 2022年春学期 建築デザイン演習について 3. 旧五反田学校の再生案 4. イサマ・スタジオの再生案 5. 旧沢田小学校の再生案 6. 旧第三小学校の再生案 7. 新たなネットワークと用途の提案 8. コンテクストリサーチ

付録 A1. 建築デザイン演習の過程と考察 A2. 学生へのフィードバック A3. 演習課題詳細 A4. セメスター・スケジュール A5. 群馬県立女子大学からのフィードバック A6. ゲストプロファイル

CONTENTS 1. About Micro Ruralism 2. About Advanced Architecture Design Studio, Spring 2022 3. Gotanda School Adaptive Reuse 4. Isama Studio Adaptive Reuse 5. Sawada School Adaptive Reuse 6. Former Daisan Elementary School Adaptive Reuse 7. Program and Network Proposals 8. Context Research

Appendices A1. Design Process and Studio Reflections

1 マイクロ・ルーラリズムについて そもそも地方問題に興味をもったきっかけはいくつかあり、一つは、 自分が地方出身ということで、将来は自分の 育った地元に、何かしら社会的な貢献をしたいと強く願っていたことがあります。 もう一つは、 ハーバード大学デ ザイン大学院に在籍していた頃、東京をベースに世界で活躍されている塚本由晴さんと貝島桃代さんの建築家 ユニット、 アトリエ・ワンのもとで建築を学んだ影響が大きいと言えます。 その建築デザイン演習の課程で、千葉 県鴨川市を一緒に訪れ、地域の方々や、地方創生に徹していらっしゃる方々とお話をする機会があり、 日本の地 方問題を都市計画や建築デザイン、 アクターネットワークの観点から深堀りして学んだという経験が、 もうひとつ の大きなきっかけになったと言えます。 それ以来、特に田舎の過疎化、少子高齢化、廃校や空き家の増加などの 問題を意識するようになり、建築や芸術の分野でどんな貢献ができるのかという課題に関心を持つようになりま した。 私は以前から建築とアートプロジェクトを同時進行してきたのですが、 その後も地域活性化に関わるプロジェク トをする機会があり、人やコミュニティーがつながるきっかけを作る、建築やアートの力というものをいろいろと 考えてきました。例えば、地域おこしの一環で、 ガーナの遠隔地にパブリックアートをデザインし、村の人達と共に インスタレーションをしたり、地元である群馬県中之条町のビエンナーレに、 アーティストとして参加させていた だくにあたって、 コミュニティーに密着したプロジェクトがもたらす地域起こし効果（まだ、 ほんのひとかけらに過 ぎないのですが） を実感する経験をしました。今後も建築やアートを通して地方を豊かにし、 コミュニティを活性 化するということの意味を、 あらゆる角度から探って行きたいと思っています。 これらの経験から、既存の物的資源や人的資源の活用方法を再発見し、 それらの価値をいかに高めていけるか という課題は、 日本だけでなく世界的に、特に環境危機の時代において、 ますます適切で緊急性の高いものであ ると確信しています。要は、都市化がかかえる問題に対しても、持続可能な環境形成や、既存の資源をいかにして 現代の生活・健康基準にそぐうかたちで活用していけるかということは、共通の課題であり、今後さらに重要にな っていくと思います。 田舎はもはや、限界地域や、近代化、工業化、 グローバル化の犠牲者として認識されるべき ではないのです。都市化という世界的な現象の中で、 ルーラリズムという逆の方向性に新しい可能性を感じるの です。 都市化問題が重視される中で、 ミクロ・アーバニズムという概念は様々な場面で展開しています。例えば、 ２０２ １年のベネチア国際建築展では、SsDのジンヒー・パークさんが、 ミクロ・アーバニズムと題して、 自給自足のマイ クロユニットを 「タピオカスペース」 と呼び、新しい住宅のプロトタイプを発表しました。 これは、個々のユニットの 認識上の境界や行動範囲を自由に拡張できる曖昧な共有スペースであり、 タピオカパールのジェルのように、 パ ブリック／プライベート、 インテリア／エクステリアという境界が柔らかく交差することで、柔軟で多様なユニット の組み合わせが可能であるという提案です。 そして、 より長期的な入居サイクルを促したり、持続可能なコミュニ

1 About Micro Ruralism One of the reasons I am interested in rural issues is that I am from such an area of Gunma prefecture in Japan. It has, therefore, been my strong desire to make positive contributions to my hometown and such rural regions in the future. The other reason is that when I studied architecture under Atelier Bow-Wow, led by Yoshiharu Tsukamoto and Momoyo Kaijima, at Harvard University Graduate School of Design, the studio addressed the issues of the Japanese countryside and what I learned from the studio further stimulated my interest. During the studio, we visited Kamogawa City, a rural community outside Tokyo, and had the opportunity to talk with the residents and those dedicated to regional development. This experience particularly influenced and inspired me to continue learning about rural issues. I, therefore, became more aware of our current concerns, including depopulation, low birthrate, aging population, and the growing number of vacant schools and houses that affect our lives and the built environment.

Furthermore, as I have been practicing in architecture and art, I became increasingly interested in exploring the roles of these fields that address such social problems in the countryside.

Since then, I have had the opportunity to work on projects as part of a larger initiative to revitalize rural communities. For example, I worked with a remote village in Ghana to design and install public art with the villagers on their land. Although it was a temporary installation, it brought jobs, used local resources, and bonded the community. I also had the opportunity to participate as an artist in Nakanojo Biennale 2021, an international contemporary art festival in Gunma, Japan. Despite the limited interaction with the community due to COVID restrictions, I saw positive changes in the town because of such a biannual festival. Executing such projects allowed me to contemplate the possibilities of architecture and art projects to participate in the betterment of our society.

Based on these experiences, I am more convinced that the questions of re-discovering the functions of existing resources and how to enhance their values are increasingly relevant and urgent, not only in Japan but also worldwide, especially in times of environmental crisis.

Furthermore, although a great deal of attention has been paid to the issues of global urbanization, building a sustainable environment is our shared responsibility regardless of whether it is in cities or the countryside. This responsibility necessitates devising better ways of utilizing our existing resources.

ティを育むために、強固な社会基盤を生み出すことができるという考えです。 また、 アトリエ・ワンは 「図解 アト リエ・ワン」 にて、場所と建物の振る舞いの関係を図説し、 周辺環境と呼応する振る舞いの関係性の観点から、 ミ クロ・アーバニズムという概念を位置づけています。 このように、 ミクロ・アーバニズムというのは、 ミクロなスケー ルで、都市における様々な事象の相互関係を検証し、都市開発のより良いあり方に反映させようとするものであ ると考えられます。 その一方で、私が地方に注目し、 ミクロ・ルーラリズムと題した理由は、単に地方活性化という概念枠で解決策を 問うだけでは、東洋文化研究者のアレックス・カーが批判するような無駄な開発に行き着いてしまうと感じたか らです。 つまりルーラリズムに、 ミクロをつける重要性は、外的な押し付け案にとどまってしまわないよう、 ミクロ なレベルで田舎の多様な内部実態を調査していくというところにあります。 ミクロ・アーバニズムが都市でやって いるようなことが、地方でも重要だと思うのです。既存の資源をフル稼働させ、地方の価値を向上させるような機 能的で生産的なネットワークを再構築すること、 そして建築の視点からそのような可能性を生み出すことが今後 ますます重要になると思っています。 そこで、 アメリカのロードアイランド州にある私立大学、 ロジャー・ウィリアムズ大学に 「ミクロ・ルーラリズム」 と 題した授業の提案をし、教育の一環として、 これらの課題に建築の視点から取り組む建築デザイン演習を２０２ ２年に実施いたしました。題材にした地域は群馬県吾妻郡中之条町です。私の地元ということもあるのですが、 ２ ０２１年に中之条ビエンナーレに参加したことをきっかけに、 この地域との繋がりが再開しました。 ウン十年ぶり に訪れた中之条は、子供の頃を思い出す中心街にも、 シャッターの降りた店舗や事務所が目立ち、少し物寂しい 印象を受けましたが、 その反面、 ビエンナーレという国際芸術祭を開催してきたことによる新しい変化にワクワク し、 とても嬉しい気持ちになったことを覚えています。 この冊子ではロジャー・ウィリアムズ大学の学生案をいくつか紹介し、演習の過程やそこから学んだこと、 今後に 反映させたい要素や、 もう少し深めていきたい内容などをディスカッションしていきたいと思います。

As the world continues to urbanize, the concept of micro-urbanism has been discussed by various practitioners. For example, Jinhee Park of SsD exhibited a work titled Micro Urbanism at the Venice International Architecture Exhibition in 2021. She presented a self-sufficient microunit called a tapioca space, suggesting a new housing prototype. The ambiguous shared spaces allow extending individual units’ perceived boundaries and the range of activities. Like tapioca pearl gel, the edges of public/private and interior/exterior spaces softly intersect, allowing for flexible and diverse unit combinations. Therefore, it encourages longer occupancy cycles and creates a solid social foundation for sustainable community growth. Atelier Bow-Wow illustrated the relationship between the place and the behaviors of associated actors in “Graphic Anatomy Atelier Bow-Wow” and positioned the concept of micro-urbanism in terms of the linkage between the surrounding environment and the corresponding behaviors, including that of people and buildings. Micro-urbanism attempts to examine the interrelationships among diverse phenomena in urban conditions on a micro-scale that may be useful for future urban development.

Despite the popularity of urban interventions, I believe what micro urbanism is investigating in cities is increasingly relevant and necessary in rural areas. The reason I titled my research “micro-ruralism” is that I felt seeking answers only within the larger conceptual framework of rural revitalization may lead to wasteful developments, as criticized by Alex Kerr, a scholar of Eastern Culture. In other words, the importance of adding the micro dimension to the study of ruralism lies in my belief that addressing rural issues requires a good understanding of its diverse internal realities, which also requires micro-level investigations.

To begin advancing the investigation, I proposed an architectural design studio to Roger Williams University in Rhode Island. I developed a design exercise to address the abovediscussed socio-economic issues from the architectural perspective and taught Advanced Architecture Design Studio for the third- and fourth-year undergraduate students in Spring 2022.

The assigned architectural project was located in the town of Nakanojo in Gunma, Japan. Although it was the backyard of my childhood, I have not been back for decades, and participating in the Nakanojo Biennale as an artist in 2021 allowed me to reconnect with the town. When I visited Nakanojo for the first time in many years, I noticed a palpable sense of decline with shuttered stores and offices in the town center. I was, however, excited to observe some new changes in the town due to Nakanojo Biennale held in a public-private partnership. Since 2007, the event has successfully brought artists from Japan and around the world, connecting them with the local people who volunteer to help their installations and attend exhibition sites during the event.

Hearing the local elders fondly talking about participating artists and exhibited artwork seemed to indicate the event’s positive impact on the community. The relationship I am re-developing with the town allowed me to program an architectural design studio with the help of the people I met in 2021. In this booklet, I would like to share students’ work and my observations and reflections on the process and the outcome of this first design studio on the topic of Micro Ruralism.

2 2022年春学期 建築デザイン演習について 2022年春、 ロジャー・ウィリアムズ大学の建築学部３年生と４年生を対象に、 ミクロ・ルーラリズムと題した建 築デザイン演習を実施いたしました。 この演習では、群馬県中之条町の廃校に対して、新しいプログラムを企画 し、校舎を再利用するための建築デザインを提案するという課題を設定しました。建築課題に取り組む前にまず 学生は少数のグループに分かれ、 日本の過疎化、少子高齢化といった地方の問題をリサーチすることから始めま す。 また、一次産業、二次産業、三次産業、六次産業という概念にも触れ、 グループごとのプレゼンテーションやク ラス全体でのディスカッションを通して理解を深めていきます。 この冊子では、学生の作品や、課題のプロセス、演 習を通して学んだことなどを紹介していきたいと思います。 それから、 この授業を実施するにあたって、演習内容に共感し、興味をもって頂いたレバノンの大学 (Lebanese American Univeristy) が同じ課題に取り組みたいということで、彼らの大学でも中之条を題材に建築デザイ ン演習が同時進行いたしました。通常のクラスはスケジュールのズレと時差により、各大学別々に進行しました が、地元関係者やゲストとして授業にお招きした先生との会話は、週末土曜日に設定し、 ズーム上で両大学共同 のディスカッションを行いました。2つの異なる文化圏から、大学生が日本の社会問題や地域の文脈をどのよう に理解し、建築の提案に結びつけたのか、 その違いを見ることは、教育学的な観点からも大変興味深いことです。 この2つの大学からの学生案を比較し、 そこから学び得たことも今後の研究に反映させていきたいと思っていま す。 今回の授業は、 中之条ビエンナーレ総合ディレクターである山重徹夫さんのご協力により、課題に必要な資 料を揃えることができました。 山重さんをはじめ、 ビエンナーレ事務局の方や、 中之条在住のアーティストの方 々、Ibasho創立者である清田英巳先生、群馬県立女子大学文学部美学美術史学科の奥西麻由子准教授にも ご協力いただき、学生にとって学びの多い授業になったと思っています。 また、 この実験的授業が実現したのも、 ロジャー・ウィリアムズ大学学部長であるスティーブン・ホワイト教授のおかげで、彼が私の提案に関心を持ち、 サポートしてくださいました。 レバノン・アメリカ大学建築・インテリアデザイン学科のマルーン・ダカチェ学科長 も、共同スタジオというアイデアを支持してくださいましたし、 同大学のムスタファ・サレー教授は、私の提案書を もとに、 レバノン・アメリカ大学で建築デザイン演習を指導してくださいました。最後に、 このような機会を生み出 すための種を、最初に蒔いてくれた2人に感謝したいと思います。 まずは、学習環境を多様化するため、 コラボレ ーションを提案していただいたのは、 レバノン・アメリカ大学アドバイザリー・カウンシルのディマ・カイララ議長で す。 また、 ロジャー・ウィリアムズ大学准教授であり、共に建築事務所を運営する私のパートナーであるロベルト・ ヴィオラ・オチョアが、 このコラボレーションを主導するよう私に進めたことがきっかけで、 自分の研究を教育の 場でさらに掘り下げていく機会を持つことができました。多くの方にお世話になり、 この場をお借りして暑くお礼 申し上げます。

2 About Advanced Architecture Design Studio, Spring 2022 In Spring 2022, I taught Advanced Architectural Design Studio based on the topic of Micro Ruralism for the third- and fourth-year undergraduate students at Roger Williams University. This studio asked students to plan a new program for one of the closed school buildings in Nakanojo in Gunma, Japan, and propose an architectural design for its adaptive reuse.

The work began with context research to understand the region and the present issues of the country, such as depopulation, declining birth rates, aging populations, and the concepts of primary, secondary, tertiary, and sixth industries. During the research, I invited the local people from Nakanojo and the relevant scholar for joint conversations with the Lebanese American University, who conducted their studio based on my studio proposal.

At the end of 2021, prior to the start of this studio, Gunma Prefecture, under the leadership of Mr. Ichita Yamamoto, publicized the “Gunma Prefecture Basic Plan for Promoting Multiculturalism and Co-creation (Draft)”. As Governor Yamamoto actively embraces different cultures and promotes a society that values diversity, I believe the adaptive reuse proposals for buildings in Gunma from two different cultures would also be of interest to the prefecture.

Lastly, I would like to take this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude to all my friends and colleagues who made this course possible: The course preparation was made possible by Mr. Tetsuo Yamashige, Director of the Nakanojo Biennale, who provided us the access to photographs and documents of existing school buildings.

Furthermore, thanks to the participation of Mr. Yamashige, the members of the Nakanojo community, Dr. Emi Kiyota, and Professor Mayuko Okunishi, the students had a valuable learning experience through their conversations. For the realization of the studio, I would like to thank: Stephen White, Dean of School and Professor of Architecture at Roger Williams University (RWU), who was openminded about my proposal and supportive of my studio during the semester; Maroun Daccache, Chair, Department of Architecture & Interior Design, School of Architecture & Design at Lebanese American University (LAU), who was also supportive of the idea of the collaborative studio between RWU and LAU; Professor Mustapha Saleh, who skillfully taught his architectural design studio at LAU. Finally, I would like to thank the two people who planted the seed for creating such a learning opportunity in the first place: Dima Khairallah, Chair of the School Advisory Council, who proposed the collaborative studio for diversifying the learning environment between RWU and LAU, and Roberto Viola Ochoa, Associate Professor at RWU and my partner in professional and personal lives, who suggested me to take the lead on the collaborative studio, which allowed my interest to be explored further on an educational platform.

左上. 旧沢田小学校の再生案

左下. 旧五反田学校の再生案

右上. 旧第三小学校の再生案 右下. 伊参スタジオの再生案

Top left. Former Sawada Elementary School Adaptive Reuse Bottom left. Former Gotanda School Adaptive Reuse Top right. Former Daisan Elementary School Adaptive Reuse Bottom right. Isama Studio Adaptive Reuse

Former Gotanda School

Isama Studio

旧五反田学校

イサマ・スタジオ

Former Sawada School

Former Daisan Elementary School

旧沢田小学校

旧第三小学校

3

旧五反田学校の再生案

3

Former Gotanda School Adaptive Reuse

3

New addition or renovation | 増築及び改築部 Existing Structure | 既存の構造

1. アーティスト・カフェ 2. 五反田アーティスト・ワークショップ ＆ カフェ 3. ナシ・ユズ・ウメ ハウス

1

2

1. Artist’s Cafe 2. Gotanda Artist Workshop and Cafe 3. Nashi-Yuzu-Ume House

ナシ・ユズ・ウメ ハウス | ライアン・パークス

Nashi - Yuzu - Ume House | Ryan Parks

ナシ・ユズ・ウメ ハウス | ライアン・パークス

Nashi - Yuzu - Ume House | Ryan Parks

ナシ・ユズ・ウメ ハウス | ライアン・パークス

Nashi - Yuzu - Ume House | Ryan Parks

ナシ・ユズ・ウメ ハウス | ライアン・パークス

Nashi - Yuzu - Ume House | Ryan Parks

ナシ・ユズ・ウメ ハウス | ライアン・パークス

Nashi - Yuzu - Ume House | Ryan Parks

ナシ・ユズ・ウメ ハウス | ライアン・パークス

Nashi - Yuzu - Ume House | Ryan Parks

五反田アーティスト・ワークショップ＆ カフェ | ルーカス・カイザー

Gotanda Artist Workshop and Cafe | Lucas Kaiser

五反田アーティスト・ワークショップ | ルーカス・カイザー

Gotanda Artist Workshop and Cafe | Lucas Kaiser

五反田アーティスト・ワークショップ | ルーカス・カイザー

Gotanda Artist Workshop and Cafe | Lucas Kaiser

34

伊参スタジオの再生案

4

Isama Studio Adaptive Reuse

3

4

New addition or renovation | 増築及び改築部 Existing Structure | 既存の構造

1. 伊参スタジオ陶芸センター 2. 農業デポ 3. 伊参伝統工芸センター ４． シルク・コミュニティーセンター

1

2

1. Isama Studio Pottery Center 2. Agriculture Depot 3. Isama Traditional Craft Center 4. Sink Community Center

農業デポ | ダリウス・ポリリオ

Agriculture Depot | Darius Polillio

農業デポ | ダリウス・ポリリオ

Agriculture Depot | Darius Polillio

伊参スタジオ陶芸センター | アリシア・ヴィンセリ

Isama Studio Pottery Center | Alicia Vincelli

5

旧沢田小学校の再生案

5

Former Sawada Elementary School Adaptive Reuse

3

New addition or renovation | 増築及び改築部 Existing Structure | 既存の構造

1. 稲作専門大学 2. 多世代集合住宅 3. 沢田ストロベリー ４．沢田コミュニティーセンター

4

1

2

1. University of Rice Cultivation 2. Multi-Generational Housing Complex 3. Sawada Strawberries 4. Sawada Community Center

多世代集合住宅 | アビゲイル・アルーダ

Multi-Generational Housing Complex | Abigail Arruda

6

旧第三小学校の再生案

6

Former Daisan Elementary School Adaptive Reuse

New addition or renovation | 増築及び改築部 Existing Structure | 既存の構造

1. 四万文化サンクチュアリー 2. 第三木工オークションハウス 3. 中之条郷土料理学校

1

2

3

1. Shima Cultural Sanctuary 2. Daisan Woodwork Auction House 3. Nakanojo Culinary School

Existing Form (Side Elevation) as it relates to the rear retaining wall of the building

第三木工オークションハウス | ボディー・イブラヒム

Cutting the building in half will maximize the space in the rear, extending the outdoor experience

While this operation splits the building into two halves , the original structure is preserved

Daisan Woodwork Auction House | Bodie Ibrahim

CLASSROOM

OPEN OFFICE

CLASSROOM

CONFERENCE ROOM

FIRST AID

WOODSHOP

第三木工オークションハウス | ボディー・イブラヒム

STORAGE

Ground Level

Second Level AA

A2

EXH. SPACE A *Outdoor Exhibition

EXH. SPACE B

EXH. SPACE A

A1

A

Daisan Woodwork Auction House | Bodie Ibrahim

第三木工オークションハウス | ボディー・イブラヒム

Daisan Woodwork Auction House | Bodie Ibrahim

第三木工オークションハウス | ボディー・イブラヒム

Daisan Woodwork Auction House | Bodie Ibrahim

第三木工オークションハウス | ボディー・イブラヒム

Daisan Woodwork Auction House | Bodie Ibrahim

7 新たなネットワークと用途の提案

New Network:

On the left, the drawing shows a new network involving local resources and assets as a result of the proposed program.

新しいネットワーク:

左側の絵は、提案した用途によって可能になる、地域の資源や資 産をつなげた新たなネットワークが描かれています。

7 Proposed Network and Program

Proposed Program:

On the right, the drawing shows a detailed contents of the proposed program for the former school building.

用途の提案:

右側の絵は、 旧校舎の新しい使い方や、 その場所で可能なアクティ ビティーを、近距離で詳細に描いています。

Nakanojo Fruit Network Cyclical Resource

RyanPolillio Parks Darius

TRADE トレード

Chef/ Kitchen Staff (from local tourist restaurant)

Livestock Raiser (from nearby cattle ranch)

Botanist (anyone with an interest)

Isama Studio

HIKING ハイキング

Site contains a cyclical network composed of the common traits of a flourishing agricultural system. Where actors are leaders of their own system - each equally as imporant as the next. Creating a self-sustained ecosystem.

FARMING 農業

ナシ・ユズ・ウメ ハウス | ライアン・パークス 旧五反田学校では、裏山に段々畑を作り、 そこに梨、柚子、梅の3種類の果樹が育つ新たな果実園をつくります。果樹園は、専門の果樹栽培者を雇い、 彼らの指導のもとに地域住民が果実園を経営します。 この3種類の果樹は、1年を通して順次開花するため、1年中を通して果物狩りを楽しむことが できます。収穫した果物は、地元の生産者が集まって行われる敷地内でのファーマーズマーケットでも販売され、地域の農家と来場者の交流の場に もなります。 また、 中之条町には図書館が2つしかなく、最も近い図書館でも5km離れているため、 旧五反田学校に小さな図書館を設置することにしました。例え ば、高齢者が子供に読み聞かせをする読書会を行うなど、高齢者を含めた近隣住民が自由に学べる教育のスペースを設けることで、 中之条が抱える 世代間格差の解消に貢献できると考えます。

旧五反田学校の新しいネットワークと用途の提案

Agriculture Nashi - Your YuzuProgram - Ume Depot House Title Darius Polillio Ryan Parks

Water on site benefits the production of all actors and their fields. Received from a newly implemented pond - is then filtered and used to serve the people and the cyclical network that gives Isama Studio new life.

PLANTING 植付

MAINTENANCE メンテナンス

HARVESTING 収穫

GARDENS 庭園

HIKING ハイキング

FOOD STORAGE 食料貯蔵庫

LIBRARY 図書館

FARMERS MARKET 食品市場

Nashi-Yuzu-Ume House | Ryan Parks The former Gotanda School introduces three types of fruit trees, Nashi, Ume, and Yuzu, that will grow in a new public garden terraced on the mountainside at the back of the building. These trees will be taken care of by the people of the neighboring communities with the guidance of local farmers. Because each crop blooms sequentially throughout the year, the garden provides a year-round fruit picking opportunity for visitors. The harvested fruits can also be sold at the weekly farmers’ market on site.

In addition, there are only two libraries within the immediate vicinity of Nakanojo, and the closest one is located 5km away. Therefore, placing a little library in this building will provide an educational space for the immediate neighborhoods, where elderly-led group reading activities can take place, which will aid in the generational divide facing Nakanojo.

Former Gotanda School New Network and Program Proposal

Artists workshop and Tea Shop Cyclical Resource Network Emily Soares Darius Polillio

Chef/ Kitchen Staff (from local tourist restaurant)

Meat Products

Eggs

Apples

Jasmine Flowers and seeds

Wheat

Livestock Raiser (from nearby cattle ranch)

Botanist (anyone with an interest)

Cherry Blossom Flowers and seeds

Kajitsunsato Harada Farm

Isama Studio

Milk Products

Kajitsunsato Harada Farm Furukawa Dairy Farm

spinach avalible from farmers markets Nakanojo Downtown

Gotanda School Site contains a cyclical network composed of the common traits of a flourishing agricultural system. Where actors are leaders of their own system - each equally as imporant as the next. Creating a self-sustained ecosystem.

Nakanojo Gardens Kanaino Orchards Butcher Shop Yaoko Market

アーティスト・カフェ | エミリー・ソアリス 由緒ある旧五反田学校では、 中之条を訪れる人々を魅了し、地域の人が気軽に集える場所を提供します。 学校内に設置した新たなカフェでは、近隣の農園から仕入れたさまざまな種類のお茶や、地元の食材を使った家庭料理、 そして自家製の焼き菓子な どが楽しめます。屋外にはハーブ園をつくり、 そこから収穫されたハーブもカフェで紅茶として味わうことができます。 また、地域の住民や観光客が絵 画や織物、陶芸などのアートを学べる空間を設け、 ここでアートを学ぶ参加者が自由に作品を展示できるようなギャラリースペースも併設します。 この 施設は、 中之条に住む若いアーティストたちの協力を得ながら、地元の高齢者が中心となって運営していきます。

旧五反田学校の新しいネットワークと用途の提案

Agriculture Depot Artist’s Cafe Program

Darius EmilyPolillio Soares

Water on site benefits the production of all actors and their fields. Received from a newly implemented pond - is then filtered and used to serve the people and the cyclical network that gives Isama Studio new life.

Tea Cafe

Gallery/ Classrooms The local community is involved in the program of the building, as well as the ingredients to make the different aspects possible.

Potential Gallery spaces can be used for other performances

The main elements of the Cafe Community events will be held in the pavilion located on the site

Gallery space will be provided for the students to display work

painting classes take place in one of the classrooms The process of making konjac noodles in a classroom setting

A garden will be upkept by the elderly community

Pottery classes in classrooms

Textile weaving take place in one of the classrooms

The process of making tea bags for sale and enjoyment in the cafe

The process of making art in a classroom setting

Artist’s Cafe | Emily Soares To foster the well-being of Nakanojo, the issue of the aging population should be addressed. The former Gotanda School will provide a space to bring the people of all ages in the community together and attract visitors to the town. The building houses a new cafe, serving various kinds of tea sourced from the neighboring farms and baked goods and dishes using local produce. Herbs will be grown in the outdoor garden and served at the cafe. The goal is to involve the surrounding communities in upkeeping the facility and procuring the products, strengthening the local economy.

The building also provides a place for the local community and tourists to learn different types of art, such as painting, textile, and pottery.

In addition, there will be a gallery space for the learners to exhibit their work. The facility will primarily be operated by the local elders with support from the younger community of artists in the town.

Former Gotanda School New Network and Program Proposal

Artist’s link to Nakanojo Cyclical Resource Network

Lucas Polillio Kaiser Darius

Chef/ Kitchen Staff (from local tourist restaurant)

Livestock Raiser tools andranch) (from nearbyls cattle

ria

Mate

Botanist (anyone with an interest)

Former Gotanda School Peo

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Site contains a cyclical network composed of the common traits of a flourishing agricultural system. Where actors are leaders of their own system - each equally as imporant as the next. Creating a self-sustained ecosystem.

Nakanojo Gardens

Former Gotanda School

Michi No Eki

五反田アーティスト・ワークショップ＆ カフェ | ルーカス・カイザー 五反田アーティスト・ワークショップ ＆ カフェは、現在、 中之条ビエンナーレの展示スペースとして使用されている建物を、 アーティストが集う場とし て活用するものです。 また、継続して中之条ビエンナーレの展示スペースとしても活用されますが、近隣の2つの人気スポット、 「中之条ガーデン」 と 「 霊山たけやま道の駅」 と連携し新たなワークショップ や カフェを設けることにより、 より多くの人を中之条に呼び寄せます。敷地内に新設される庭園 には、 中之条ガーデンの花々が持ち込まれ、五反田アーティスト・ワークショップで働くアーティストが手入れをしていきます。 また、 霊山たけやま道の 駅からスタートする登山道を旧五反田学校の敷地まで伸ばし、 ハイキング客が気軽にワークショップ や カフェに足を運べるような仕組みをつくりま す。

旧五反田学校の新しいネットワークと用途の提案

Agriculture Depot Gotanda Artist Workshop and cafe Darius Polillio Lucas Kaiser

Former Gotanda School

Water on site benefits the production of all actors and their fields. Received from a newly implemented pond - is then filtered and used to serve the people and the cyclical network that gives Isama Studio new life.

Atrist’s Workspace

Garden

Cafe and Gallery

Gotanda Artist Workshop and Cafe | Lucas Kaiser Gotanda Artist Workshop and Cafe brings artists together while enhancing the current use of the building as an exhibition space during the Nakanojo Biennale. With the new program, the building will link the two popular places in the neighboring communities: Nakanojo Garden and Reizan Takeyama Michi-no-Eki (Roadside Station, offering a place of rest, farmers’ market, local eatery, information center, and bathroom). A new garden on the property of Gotanda School will bring plants from the Nakanojo Gardens, which will be maintained by the artists who work at the facility. In addition, the hiking trail that stretches from Michi-no-Eki reaches the Gotanda School and invites hikers to its gallery space.

Former Gotanda School New Network and Program Proposal

Wet Clay Harvest

Dry Clay Harvest Isama Studio

Alicia Vincelli Darius Polillio

Chef/ Kitchen Staff (from local tourist restaurant)

Step 1 Botanist (anyone with an interest)

Step 1 The Musee

Step 2

Nakanojo Pottery Network Cyclical Resource

Step 2

Step 3

Livestock Raiser (from nearby cattle ranch)

Step 3

Isama Studio

Site contains a cyclical network composed of the common traits of a flourishing agricultural system. Where actors are leaders of their own system - each equally as imporant as the next. Creating a self-sustained ecosystem.

A dense layer of clay can usually be found under 8 - 18 inches of topsoil. The yield of clay harvesting will be higher in clay soils and in areas where water tends to stay stagnant after heavy rainfalls.

Clay Harvesting

Clay is present in almsot all soils, even ones that are considered “sandy loam”.

Soil can contain as much as 20% of clay. For every 10 pounds of soil there is about 2 pounds of clay that can be harvested.

伊参スタジオ陶芸センター | アリシア・ヴィンセリ 伊参スタジオ陶芸センターは、地元で採れた土を使って、陶芸づくりの最初から最後の過程を全て体験することができます。 また、 中之条町の美術館 「ミュゼ」 と連携し、 まずは美術館から陶芸体験をスタートさせる一日体験パッケージとして楽しめるシステムをつくります。 この一日体験では、美術 館で日本の歴史的な焼き物に触れた後、美術館で鑑賞した作品を参考に、今度は伊参スタジオ陶芸センターで自分で焼き物を作るができます。 例えば、町内の高齢者が集い、一緒に一日陶芸体験をすることで、 お互いのつながりを深め、結果的に高齢者の生活向上につながるかもしれません。 また、陶芸体験で交流を深めた人たちと日常生活を共にすることで、介護のために中之条町に戻ってきた若い人たちの負担を軽減することもできる と思います。

伊参スタジオの新しいネットワークと用途の提案

Agriculture Isama Studio Pottery Depot Center

Pottery is a traditional Japanese craft that can be traced back over 10,000 years.

Many artifacts have been discovered by acheologists from Nakanojo, Japan.

Darius AliciaPolillio Vincelli

Water on site benefits the production of all actors and their fields. Received from a newly implemented pond - is then filtered and used to serve the people and the cyclical network that gives Isama Studio new life.

Pottery Aristis Studio

Artifact Display Workshops

Gallery

Clay Processing

Pottery Sales Isama Studio

Clay Harvesting

All processes that occur in pottery making will be accomplished on the site. Guests will be able to explore Japan’s history rich history through the processes of making clay from stractch and creating pottery.

Isama Studio Pottery Center | Alicia Vincelli Isama Studio Pottery Center allows people to engage themselves in the start to finish of pottery making, using the locally-harvested clay.

In addition, the facility will connect with The Musee, a museum in Downtown Nakanojo, providing people with a more convenient place to start their day. Then people will not need to worry about traveling to Isama Studio as transportation will be provided through the partnership between the two locations. This packaged full-day workshop will provide a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about the historical pottery of Japan through the hands-on experience.

The Pottery Center will also allow people living within Nakanojo to take a workshop with others from their town. These new connections will be formed through the full-day pottery experience, which may help improve the lives of the elderly population. In such a scenario, people may make friends that can help them with their everyday lives, taking some pressure off their younger family members to return to Nakanojo to take care of their loved ones.

Isama Studio New Network and Program Proposal

Cyclical Resource Network Darius Polillio

Chef/ Kitchen Staff (from local tourist restaurant)

Livestock Raiser (from nearby cattle ranch)

Botanist (anyone with an interest)

Isama Studio

Site contains a cyclical network composed of the common traits of a flourishing agricultural system. Where actors are leaders of their own system - each equally as imporant as the next. Creating a self-sustained ecosystem.

農業デポ | ダリウス・ポリリオ 農業デポでは、農業システムの伝統的・近代的手法を学ぶことができます。独立した人口栽培システムを設け、管理された気候の中で各自が自分の作 物を栽培することができます。 また、 キッチンやコミュニティスペースも設け、 自分で料理をすることに慣れていない人や、年齢を重ねても積極的にいろ んな活動に参加したい人たちなどが、 この施設で新しい料理を学んだり、農業について学んだり、参加者との交流を深めたりすることのできる活動の 場を提供します。 そういった場を設けるということは、 中之条町の高齢者の孤独問題を解決するための一策であると考えます。 この施設は、植物学者、 シェフ、家畜飼育者の3つのアクターのもとで運営され、持続可能なシステムの構築を目指します。例えば、雨水収集システム を使い、農作物栽培用の水を調達・循環させます。収穫した農産物は後に厨房スタッフが調理し、厨房からの調理くずは家畜の餌になります。 そして、 家畜の排せつ物は施設内外で栽培されている農作物の肥料として使用されます。

伊参スタジオの新しいネットワークと用途の提案

Agriculture Depot Darius Polillio

Water on site benefits the production of all actors and their fields. Received from a newly implemented pond - is then filtered and used to serve the people and the cyclical network that gives Isama Studio new life.

Agriculture Depot | Darius Polillio Agriculture Depot provides a space where people can learn historic and modernized approaches to agricultural systems. An isolated growing system allows individuals to grow their own crops in a controlled climate. This area connects with the adjoined kitchen and community space. The place offers those that may not be familiar with cooking on their own or want to be active in their old age an opportunity to learn new things and connect with others, addressing the issue of loneliness among the elderly in Nakanojo. The facility operates under three main actors, the botanist, the chef, and the cattle-raiser, driving the progression of a sustainable system. For example, a rainwater collection system allows botanists to maintain the quality and growth of produce, which is later given to the kitchen staff for culinary production. Throughout the process of preparing meals, the disposed waste may be fed to the cattle, whose waste will fertilize the grow beds in the interior and exterior agricultural systems.

Isama Studio New Network and Program Proposal

Cyclical Resource Isama Traditional Craft Center Network

Darius Polillio Alex Hillemeir

Chef/ Kitchen Staff (from local tourist restaurant)

Livestock Raiser (from nearby cattle ranch)

Botanist (anyone with an interest)

Isama Studio Satetsu

Yamadori Raw Lumber

Craftspeople and knowledgable people

Nakanojo

Tools and Supples from Site contains a cyclical network composed of the common traits of a flourishing the communty agricultural system. Where actors are leaders of their own system - each equally as imporant as the next. Creating a self-sustained ecosystem.

Skilled Metalworers

伊参伝統工芸センター | アレクサンダー・ヒレミア 中之条町は山に囲まれ自然資源が豊富なため、木材を素材として制作するアーティストや職人にとって理想的な場所です。 また、群馬県でも採取で きる砂鉄は、古くからある鍛冶（かじ） の伝統には欠かせない原料です。伊参伝統工芸センターは、 それらの自然資源を使ったアート作品や工芸品を 制作できる場所を提供し、 アーティスト同士がアイデアや知識を交換し、交流できる場を提供します。 また、熟練の高齢者職人が若い職人を指導し て、伝統的な技術や知恵を伝える機会を設けるなど、 日本の伝統と職人技を継承していけるシステムを構築します。

伊参スタジオの新しいネットワークと用途の提案

Agriculture Depot Isama Traditional Craft Center

Darius Polillio Alex Hillemeir

Water on site benefits the production of all actors and their fields. Received from a newly implemented pond - is then filtered and used to serve the people and the cyclical network that gives Isama Studio new life.

Iron sand (satetsu) and Charcoal Bonsai Studio

Woodshop

Forging

Nursery and Garden Melting satetsu into iron and burning wood into charcoal TTamahagane is a traditional japanese iron used in bladesmithing

Wooden products such as furnture and cuttng boards

Metalworking products such as traditional japanese kitchen knives

Isama Traditional Craft Center | Alexander Hillemeir Due to the town’s abundance of trees and forested spaces, there is a large amount of lumber production from forestry businesses. This abundance of lumber and other natural resources from nature make this location ideal for artists and craftspeople who rely on resources like wood. Another natural resource is “satetsu,” which relates back to the centuries-old tradition of blacksmithing. The town relies on tourists with several attractions such as natural hot springs and historical landmarks. The Nakanojo Biennale has brought artists to Nakanojo and turned the rural farming town into a community of artists. The Isama Traditional Craft Center is a place for communal interaction and exchanging ideas and knowledge among artists. There will be opportunities for the older generations to teach younger generations and pass on their skills and wisdom, which will help preserve these traditions and practices in Nakanojo.

Isama Studio New Network and Program Proposal

Silk Revival Network Cyclical Resource

AustinPolillio Jarvis Darius

Chef/ Kitchen Staff (from local tourist restaurant)

Travel Locally

Elderly Community Livestock Raiser (from nearby cattle ranch)

Botanist (anyone with an interest)

Studio Isama Isama Studio

Younger People

Education & History

Silk Products

Silk Arts & Crafts

Exhibitions of Culture

Site contains a cyclical network composed of the common traits of a flourishing agricultural system. Where actors are leaders of their own system - each equally as imporant as the next. Creating a self-sustained ecosystem.

シルク・コミュニティーセンター | オースティン・ジャービス 絹産業は、特に女性が、美しい織物を生産し取引していたという歴史があり、 その繁栄により文化・貿易の町として中之条を位置付けていました。 この 新しいシルク・コミュニティーセンターは、今では数少ない養蚕農家を筆頭に、誰でもが絹製品を簡単に作ることができる場を提供します。地元や近 隣の町から訪れた人たちが、 中之条町の高齢者コミュニティと交流しながら、絹生産について学ぶことができます。 シルク・コミュニティーセンターには、絹を生産するための工房スペース、絹製品を展示・購入できるギャラリー、絹を染めるための染色ステーション、 そして年間を通じて楽しめる屋内庭園を設置します。 また、 このセンターでは、絹糸の原料として蚕と蓮を使います。養蚕は、 肉体労働を伴わずに比較 的容易なものですが、 その工程や技術の習得には時間がかかります。蓮を使う新しい絹生産技術も導入し、 その技術は習得が難しいといわれていま すが、高齢者と若者が協力して習得していけるような環境を整え、新しい絹生産技術の進展を促進します。屋内庭園は、絹の染料となる様々な植物 が栽培される他、蚕の飼育所としても利用されます。

伊参スタジオの新しいネットワークと用途の提案

Agriculture Community CenterDepot of Silk Darius Polillio Austin Jarvis

Water on site benefits the production of all actors and their fields. Received from a newly implemented pond - is then filtered and used to serve the people and the cyclical network that gives Isama Studio new life.

Silkworm

Silk from Silkworm

Lotus Flower

Silk from Lotus Flower

Dyes for Silk

Isama Studio Gardening

Sink Community Center | Austin Jarvis The silk industry had imprinted Nakanojo as a cultural and trade town where women had been able to produce rich fabrics to be traded or kept for use. The Sink Community Center is an elderly-run community place that allows easy crafting of silk products. Visitors come locally or travel from neighboring towns to participate and learn about silk production while interacting with the elderly communities.

The building houses studio spaces for producing silk, a gallery for displays and purchases of silk products, a dyeing station to color silk fabrics, and a year-round indoor garden. Silkworms are the primary source of silk fibers, and the process and techniques can be learned without much physical labor, although it takes time to master. Using lotus flowers is a new technique for producing silk, which is harder to master. Learning this new technique will be an opportunity for the elderly and younger technicians to interact with each other. The indoor garden is a place to cultivate silkworms and various types of flowers and plants for different color dyes.

Isama Studio New Network and Program Proposal

Cyclical Resource Network Darius Polillio

Chef/ Kitchen Staff (from local tourist restaurant)

Livestock Raiser (from nearby cattle ranch)

Botanist (anyone with an interest)

Isama Studio

Site contains a cyclical network composed of the common traits of a flourishing agricultural system. Where actors are leaders of their own system - each equally as imporant as the next. Creating a self-sustained ecosystem.

稲作専門大学 | ジョセフ・ディパオロ 都会から田舎により多くの若い世代を呼び込むため、 旧沢田小学校を、稲作を学ぶ1学期制の大学として利用することを提案します。都市部の大学 に通う農学部の学生たちが、 中之条に短期間滞在し、 日本の稲作の歴史や生産について、実体験を交えながら学ぶことができます。 また、経験豊富な 地元の稲作農業者を呼んで、学生たちに稲の正しい育て方を教えてもらい、学生たちは、彼らの助けを借りながら、新しい田んぼで稲栽培を経験しま す。 このプログラムは、都会の学生が、郊外に住むことの良さを体験し理解を深めることを目的とします。 また、学生たちは米製品を創作し、施設内に あるマーケットやレストランで販売・提供することによって、地域の人々との交流を深めます。

旧沢田小学校の新しいネットワークと用途の提案

Agriculture Depot Darius Polillio

Water on site benefits the production of all actors and their fields. Received from a newly implemented pond - is then filtered and used to serve the people and the cyclical network that gives Isama Studio new life.

University of Rice Cultivation | Joseph Depoalo The former Sawada Elementary School will be converted into a semester-long university for learning rice cultivation, which will bring more members of the younger generation from cities to the countryside of Japan. Those who come to the school are agriculture students in urban universities. They will stay for a short period of time to learn both in the classroom and the field about the history and production of rice in Japan. The students will learn how to properly grow and nurture the crops from the local elderly community, who are experts on rice cultivation. This program will allow students from urban areas to experience and understand the benefits of living outside the city. There will be a public market and a restaurant for the students to sell and serve rice products and connect with the local community.

Former Sawada Elementary School New Network and Program Proposal

Multi-Generational Housing Network Cyclical Resource Abigail Darius Arruda Polillio

Chef/ Kitchen Staff (from local tourist restaurant)

Livestock Raiser (from nearby cattle ranch)

Botanist (anyone with an interest)

Isama Studio

Site contains a cyclical network composed of the common traits of a flourishing agricultural system. Where actors are leaders of their own system - each equally as imporant as the next. Creating a self-sustained ecosystem.

多世代集合住宅 | アビゲイル・アルーダ 住民同士のつながりを育み、 中之条町の人口減少に対応するため、新しい多世代集合住宅を提案します。 この複合施設には、高齢者ケア、託児所や 診療所（内科医、外科医、歯科医、薬剤師、訪問看護師、 ケアマネジャーなどのオフィス）、 セミナールーム、制作スタジオ、 コミュニティスペースなどを 設けます。 また、地域のアーティストや職人、農業者が、作品や商品を販売できるギャラリーや、高齢者が働けるマーケットや庭園なども設置します。 コ ミュニティスペースでは、地域の人たちによるワークショップやセミナーなどを催し、制作スタジオでは、 アーティストが自由に制作活動をしてその場 で作品を展示することができます。 オフィススペースは、都会から移住してきた人たちが、容易にリモートワークできるような環境を設定し、介護離職 によって自分のキャリアを中断することなく、家族の介護と仕事を両立できるような場所を提供します。 そして、 この複合施設を設けることによって、 中 之条に引っ越してきた人たちにも新しい仕事を提供し、移住者が中之条に在住する家族とともに移り住むという選択肢を可能にします。

旧沢田小学校の新しいネットワークと用途の提案

Depot Multi-GenerationalAgriculture Housing Complex Darius AbigailPolillio Arruda

Water on site benefits the production of all actors and their fields. Received from a newly implemented pond - is then filtered and used to serve the people and the cyclical network that gives Isama Studio new life.

Multi-Generational Housing Complex | Abigail Arruda A new multi-generational housing complex fosters community connections and addresses the population decline in Nakanojo. The complex includes aging care, classrooms, studios, and various amenities to build relationships between those living in the community and the complex. Amenities include childcare and physician’s clinics (including a physician, dentist, pharmacist, visiting nurse, and care manager).

The complex will also have a market where artists, farmers, and craftspeople can sell their goods and work and a place for elders to work, including the market or gardens. The studio spaces allow artists to work and display their work, attracting more artists from larger cities into the rural communities.

Community spaces throughout the building include office spaces and open rooms for community activities such as workshops and classes from those within the community. Office spaces allow those moving from cities for remote work or self-employment. The complex will provide new people moving to Nakanojo with new job opportunities or those with family members living in Nakanojo the option to move to be with them. This is especially helpful for the children of elders living in the community as they can move back to care for their families without putting their careers or life on pause.

Former Sawada Elementary School New Network and Program Proposal

Cyclical Resource Network Darius Polillio

Chef/ Kitchen Staff (from local tourist restaurant)

Livestock Raiser (from nearby cattle ranch)

Botanist (anyone with an interest)

Former Sawada Elementary School

Isama Studio

Nakanojo

Site contains a cyclical network composed of the common traits of a flourishing agricultural system. Where actors are leaders of their own system - each equally as imporant as the next. Creating a self-sustained ecosystem.

Remote work in rural condition

Work in the city

沢田ストロベリー | ヤーデン・サケット 旧沢田小学校は、主に2つの用途に転換します。 ひとつは、 イチゴを使った6次産業の場で、 イチゴの栽培、 イチゴ製品の製造、梱包、販売をします。地 域住民が主体となって６次産業を推進することで、衰退している2次・3次産業を強化し、 地域に密着した雇用の確保を目指します。 また、 この施設を 地元のイチゴでブランド化することで、観光客を町に呼び込む効果も期待できます。 もうひとつは、都会を離れ、 リモートワークができる静かな場所を求めている人たちのための短期滞在型アパートです。 アパートと6次産業の場を組 み合わせることで、一時滞在をしている住人は、地域住民と交流しやすくなります。 また、短期滞在することによって中之条町をよりよく知ることがで き、 田舎暮らしの入門編としての体験が可能です。

旧沢田小学校の新しいネットワークと用途の提案

Agriculture Depot Darius Polillio

Strawberry Vending Strawberry Jam

Water on site benefits the production of all actors and their fields. Received from a newly implemented pond - is then filtered and used to serve the people and the cyclical network that gives Isama Studio new life.

Strawverry Smoothie

Market / Short-term Apartments Strawberry Products Outdoor Strawberry Field

Kitchen

Strawberry Greenhouse

Former Sawada Elementary School

Sawada Strawberries | Yarden Sackett The former Sawada Elementary School will be converted into two uses. One is a place for the sixth industry of strawberries, where the local community cultivates strawberries, produces, packages sells, and serves strawberry products. Promoting the sixth industry by engaging the local community as the main actors will help establish a sense of community while strengthening the decreasing secondary and tertiary sectors in Nakanojo. In addition, branding the facility with the local strawberry will also help beckon tourists to the town.

The second is a place dedicated to short-term apartments for those who want to leave the urban cities in search of a peaceful place to do remote work. Living in these apartments allows the inhabitants to engage in the community and get a better sense of the culture of Nakanojo, which will be an excellent introduction to rural life.

Former Sawada Elementary School New Network and Program Proposal

Cyclical Resource Network Community Connections DariusHerman Polillio Matthew

Chef/ Kitchen Staff (from local tourist restaurant)

Livestock Raiser (from nearby cattle ranch)

Botanist (anyone with an interest)

Isama Studio

Site contains a cyclical network composed of the common traits of a flourishing agricultural system. Where actors are leaders of their own system - each equally as imporant as the next. Creating a self-sustained ecosystem.

沢田コミュニティーセンター | マシュー・ハーマン 沢田コミュニティセンターは、地域の人々が集い、新しい出会いが生まれる場所です。校庭には、地元の農家、 アーティスト、学生たちが自由に売買で きるような屋外マーケットを設けます。 また、 自分の知識や経験を若い世代に伝えるセミナーや、気軽に地元の人が集まれるコーヒーショップの運営 など、高齢者が地域の中で主体的に活動できる場を提供します。 アートスタジオやギャラリーなどのスペースも設け、幅広い年齢層の人々が交流でき る場として利用できます。 そして、地域の歳入増加策として、地場産野菜や地元で採れた素材を使った様々な製品・工芸品などを販売できるショップ も設けます。 旧沢田小学校は、緑に囲まれ、人里離れた静かな場所に位置しているにもかかわらず、 中之条町の中心街からは比較的に近く、 車やバスでのアクセス も容易です。 そのため、自然と触れ合いながら人と交流できるコミュニティーセンターがこの場所には最適だと考えます。

旧沢田小学校の新しいネットワークと用途の提案

The Heart Of Nakanojo Agriculture Depot Darius Herman Polillio Matthew

Water on site benefits the production of all actors and their fields. Received from a newly implemented pond - is then filtered and used to serve the people and the cyclical network that gives Isama Studio new life.

Sawada Community Center | Matthew Herman The Sawada Community Center allows the local community to come together and meet each other. The large paved area to the south side of the existing building will be used as an outdoor market area, allowing the local workers, farmers, artists, and students to sell their products. The elderly will be engaged in activities, such as working at a coffee shop or lending their knowledge to the younger generation in the classroom. Alongside the elderly, children are encouraged to come and learn about the culture and new arts and crafts. The facility also provides art studios and a gallery space to attract people of all ages.

The shops will use locally sourced materials such as tea, wood, clay, and flowers to boost local revenue.

The location of the facility is fortuitous due to the proximity to a denser area of Nakanojo and being within a reasonable driving distance from many other areas of the town. In addition, the facility has easy access by bus, although it is surrounded by wooded areas, thus quiet and somewhat isolated. Such conditions will allow people to rediscover themselves and old customs in a secluded, peaceful place to reconnect with their past and meet others to share their futures.

Former Sawada Elementary School New Network and Program Proposal

Cyclical Resource Resource Network

Darius Polillio Ethan Izzo

Chef/ Kitchen Staff (from local tourist restaurant)

Livestock Raiser (from nearby cattle ranch)

Botanist (anyone with an interest)

Isama Studio

Site contains a cyclical network composed of the common traits of a flourishing agricultural system. Where actors are leaders of their own system - each equally as imporant as the next. Creating a self-sustained ecosystem.

中之条郷土料理教室 | イーサン・イッゾ 中之条郷土料理教室は、 日本に限らず海外からの観光客が、滞在しながら中之条町の伝統的な郷土料理を学ぶことのできる場所です。 この施設に は、料理教室が行われるキッチンスペースや、郷土料理を楽しむことができる大きな集会・食堂スペースを設置します。 このような伝統的な郷土料理を学べる料理教室は、 四万観光客にとって新たなアトラクションとなり、 中之条町の観光を強化・活性化することにつ ながります。 また、 この地域の大きな魅力のひとつに、美しい山並みの景観があります。 そこで、 この壮大な景観を一望できるパノラマ窓を食堂スペー スに設けます。既存の体育館はマーケットとして活用し、地元農家からの新鮮な食材を直販します。

旧第三小学校の新しいネットワークと用途の提案

Nakanojo Cultural School of the Cullinary Arts Agriculture Depot Darius Polillio Ethan Izzo

Water on site benefits the production of all actors and their fields. Received from a newly implemented pond - is then filtered and used to serve the people and the cyclical network that gives Isama Studio new life.

Nakanojo Culinary Art School

Nakanojo Culinary School | Ethan Izzo Nakanojo Culinary School provides a place for people from all over the world to stay and learn the culinary traditions of the Nakanojo area.

The facility will house several different types of culinary classrooms, a kitchen space, and a large gathering/dining space where members of the community can also gather while enjoying the regional cuisine. Such a unique opportunity of learning culinary traditions will attract more people to the Shima area, strengthening and revitalizing the tourism of Nakanojo.

One of the area’s major draws is the beautiful view of the mountainscape. Therefore, to capitalize on this aspect, a separate dining building offers a panoramic view of the mountainscape, which will be experienced as a discovery moment when people enter the building.

The existing gymnasium will be converted into a market, where the local farmers will sell their fresh produce to the community and those learning in the culinary school.

Former Daisan Elementary School New Network and Program Proposal

Cyclical Resource Network Darius Polillio

Chef/ Kitchen Staff (from local tourist restaurant)

Livestock Raiser (from nearby cattle ranch)

Botanist (anyone with an interest)

Isama Studio

Site contains a cyclical network composed of the common traits of a flourishing agricultural system. Where actors are leaders of their own system - each equally as imporant as the next. Creating a self-sustained ecosystem.

第三木工オークションハウス | ボディー・イブラヒム 第三木工オークションハウスでは、木工職人が技術を磨いたり、制作した作品を展示しオークションにかけるなどして、新しい木工技術の発展や伝 統技術の継承を促進します。 旧第三小学校を全面改修し、木工室やギャラリーを設置し、 中之条町に住む高齢の熟練職人が、 自分の専門知識や職 人技を生かして、木工制作に従事できる場所を提供します。 ここで制作された家具などの木工作品は、一般市民や観光客に対してオークションにか けられます。 そしてオークションの収益は、 コミュニティーに還元され、第三木工オークションハウスの運営や地域活性化事業に使用されます。 このよ うに、地元の高齢技術者に権利を付与したり、彼らの能力を引き出す機会を設けることによって、高齢者がこれからもますます自己実現できる場にし たいと思います。 また、 四万を訪れる観光客は、職人が教える木工ワークショップで、 さまざまな木工芸を体験することができます。

旧第三小学校の新しいネットワークと用途の提案

Agriculture Depot Senior Auction Shop

Darius BodiePolillio Ibrahim

Water on site benefits the production of all actors and their fields. Received from a newly implemented pond - is then filtered and used to serve the people and the cyclical network that gives Isama Studio new life.

Furniture Products

Forestry Products will be brought in from nearby forestry insdustries

Manufactured products will be auctioned

Former Daisan Elementary School

Daisan Woodwork Auction House | Bodie Ibrahim Daisan Woodwork Auction House is a place where the valuable skills of wood-crafting will prosper. The Former Daisan Elementary School will entirely be renovated to accommodate woodworking space, galleries, and an auction house. Benefiting from the expertise and wisdom of the elderly of Nakanojo, Daisan Woodwork Auction House invites senior craftspeople to produce woodworks, which will be exhibited and auctioned to the general public and the tourists. The revenue generated by the auction will be used to operate the school and the community. Such opportunities will empower the elderly and become an example for the younger generation to carry on their traditions. In addition, tourists can also learn and explore many possibilities in woodcraft by engaging in workshops and classrooms.

Former Daisan Elementary School New Network and Program Proposal

An Intersection for Tourism and Tradition Cyclical Resource Network

Grayson DariusScanlon Polillio

SHIMA AREA Chef/ Kitchen Staff (from local tourist restaurant)

Livestock Raiser (from nearby cattle ranch)

Former Daisan Elementary School Botanist (anyone with an interest)

Tourism

Isama Studio

Transportation

Farm to Table

Site contains a cyclical network composed of the common traits of a flourishing agricultural system. Where actors are leaders of their own system - each equally as imporant as the next. Creating a self-sustained ecosystem.

Carving Kendama

四万文化サンクチュアリー | グレイソン・スキャンロン 四万文化サンクチュアリーでは、 中之条住民や観光客が、地元の食材を使った郷土料理をオープンキッチンで実体験でき、 中之条町の食文化を学ぶ ことができます。 また、郷土料理ワークショップの参加者同士で食事をともにすることで、新しい人との出会いや、地域の人との繋がりを深めることが できます。料理の他、地元の木材を使ったけん玉などの伝統的な木製玩具を作るワークショップも開催します。 これらのワークショップを開催すること で、地方で消えつつある職人の知恵と知識を継承させるとともに、 中之条町の豊かな歴史や美しい景観を知ってもらう機会を増やすことができます。 また、長期滞在者には、施設運用のボランティアをすることによって滞在費を免除するプログラムを提供します。

旧第三小学校の新しいネットワークと用途の提案

Shima Agriculture Cultural Sanctuary Depot

Grayson Scanlon Darius Polillio

Water on site benefits the production of all actors and their fields. Received from a newly implemented pond - is then filtered and used to serve the people and the cyclical network that gives Isama Studio new life.

transportation local produce

kendama

Former Daisan Elementary School

Shima Cultural Sanctuary | Grayson Scanlon With a locally sourced open kitchen staffed by elders in the community, Shima Cultural Sanctuary engages the residents and travelers in learning about popular dishes in Nakanojo through hands-on experience and sharing a meal with new friends.

In addition, workshops for using locally harvested wood and crafting traditional wooden toys, such as kendama, are taught by masters in woodcarving. These experiences will enhance the tourism industry in the Shima area and provide more opportunities for visitors to learn about Nakanojo’s rich history and beautiful landscape, bringing business to local stores and supporting its public transportation system.

Furthermore, long-term guests in the facility will be compensated for their stay by volunteering, helping facilitate programs, and managing domestic errands.

Former Daisan Elementary School New Network and Program Proposal

8 コンテクストリサーチ コンテクスト・リサーチでは、学生たちは4つのグループに分かれ、各グループごとに群馬県と中之条町 の人口統計、歴史、環境、類型、3種類の産業など、与えられた分野のリサーチを行いました。 ここで重 要となるのは、集めた情報を咀嚼して独自の観察・解釈をすることです。 このセクションでは、 その調査 結果をグラフィックスとしてまとめたものを紹介します。 コンテキスト・リサーチについての詳細は、 「建 築デザイン演習の過程と考察」 をご参照ください。

8 Context Research During the first three weeks, students split into four groups. Each group collectively conducted context research with given areas of focus, such as demography, history, environment, typology, and three different types of industries in the town of Nakanojo and Gunma prefecture.

The important aspect of context research was to digest the found information into their voice. They were asked to document their unique observations and interpretations of the facts they collected from the research. This section shows examples of the graphics resulting from the work. See Section A1, “Design Process and Studio Reflections.” for more discussions on context research.

Development Development Pattern Pattern Legend Legend River River Influence Influence

Religious Religious Influence Influence

Combined Combined Influence Influence

River River ShrineShrine Locations Locations Project Project Sites Sites

This map This shows map shows us some us some of theofinfluence the influence on theonurban the urban layoutlayout of Nakanojo. of Nakanojo.

The main The main influence influence on Nakanojo on Nakanojo are the are rivers the rivers running running through through it, which it, which is reflected is reflected in theinamount the amount of agricultural of agricultural land land Nakanojo Nakanojo provides. provides.

This map This also map shows also shows us where us where the people the people decided decided to place to place religious religious locations locations and the and the influence influence it hadit on hadthe onsurrounding the surrounding area. area.

Demographics

> 15

15 - 64

65+

School Location

Low Density

Mid Density

High Density

The trend of these rural towns in Japan, including Nakanojo, is that of a declining young population and increasing elderly population. This map shows the demographics as of 2015. The trend appears to trend towards a decreasing population of younger people in the area and an increasing older population.The younger population tends to head for the cities and the elderly stay behind.

This leaves a lot of hard, manual labor like farming to the older population.

Environment

Area Most Impacted by Wind Low Elevation High Humidity Moderate Elevation Moderate Humidity High Elevation Low Humidity

Nakanojo, Japan, is located in Gunma Perfecture. Nakanojo is located in a mountainous region Northwest of the capital. The region is primarily filled with densely wooded forests. The most populated areas are within the valleys where there is less vegetation.

The valleys are impacted most by wind and humidity. Also, the water paths primarily follow the same direction of the valleys. The strongest winds come from the Southwest and the Northeast, affecting Downtown Nakanojo.

Nakanojo has consistently high humidity levels with an average annual percentage of 72%. The humidity level are primarily the highest within the valleys and lower at mountain peaks.

Primary Primary Industry Industry

Secondary Secondary Industry Industry

Butcher Butcher Shops Shops Food Food Production Production / Spices / Spices Bakery Bakery Concrete Concrete / Aggregates / Aggregates Plastics Plastics Machinery Machinery Metalwork Metalwork Clothing Clothing Facilities Facilities

TheThe Secondary Secondary industry industry of of Nakanojo Nakanojo hashas severly severly dimished dimished over over thethe past past fewfew years. years.

As As of 2015, of 2015, secondary secondary industry industry in Nakanojo in Nakanojo waswas down down almost almost 63% 63% since since its its peak peak in in 1990.

1990.

As As such such it now it now almost almost exclusively exclusively exists exists around around thethe major major citycity of of Nakanojo.

Nakanojo.

Tertiary Tertiary Industry Industry Tertiary Tertiary Industry Industry Tertiary Tertiary Industry Industry Tertiary Tertiary Industry Industry

HOTEL HOTEL Hotel Hotel HOTEL HOTEL HOTEL HOTEL HOTEL HOTEL RESTAURANT RESTAURANT Restaurant Restaurant RESTAURANT RESTAURANT RESTAURANT RESTAURANT RESTAURANT RESTAURANT TOURIST TOURIST ATTRACTION ATTRACTION Tourist Tourist Attraction Attraction TOURIST TOURIST ATTRACTION ATTRACTION TOURIST TOURIST ATTRACTION ATTRACTION TOURIST TOURIST ATTRACTION ATTRACTION HEALTHCARE HEALTHCARE Healthcare Healthcare HEALTHCARE HEALTHCARE HEALTHCARE HEALTHCARE HEALTHCARE HEALTHCARE

Shop Shop STORE STORE STORE STORE STORE STORE STORE STORE

付録

APPENDICES

A1 建築デザイン演習の過程と考察 1. コンテクストリサーチ • 中之条町住民との対話 • 清田英巳先生との対話 --「環境を共創する。 デザインによる高齢 者の自立とコミュニティーの強化」 • 中之条町の背景と既存の建物を分析する • 今後の可能性と課題 2. プログラムとネットワーク • 群馬県立女子大学の学生からのフィードバック • 今後の可能性と課題 3. デザインの探求 • 建築再生を前例から学ぶ • 建築的な問いかけ • 今後の可能性と課題 4. 模型製作 • CNCを使ったグループワーク • 今後の可能性と課題 5. 課題構成 • 今後の可能性と課題 6. オンラインと対面式の講評会 • コンテクスト研究発表 • 中間発表 • 最終発表 • 今後の可能性と課題

A1 Design Process and Studio Reflections 1. Context Research • Conversation with the Nakanojo residents • Conversation with Dr. Emi Kiyota -- “Co-creating Environments: Empowering Elders and Strengthening Communities through Design”

• Analyzing context and existing conditions • Challenges and opportunities 2. Program and Network • Feedback from Gunma Prefectural Women’s University students

• Challenges and opportunities 3. Design Explorations • Precedent Study • Architectural inquiries

• Challenges and opportunities 4. Physical Model • Group work using CNC

• Challenges and opportunities 5. Assignment Structure • Challenges and opportunities 6. Presentations • Research Presentations • Pinup presentation & self-evaluation • Final Reviews

• Challenges and opportunities

1. Context Research • Conversation with the Nakanojo residents (photo1) Having direct conversations with the Nakanojo residents over Zoom was helpful for the students to deepen their understanding of the town. The participants from Nakanojo included: the director of the Nakanojo Biennale, a staff member whose family is from Nakanojo, an artist who emigrated from Tokyo recently, and an artist duo (one is from the neighboring town and the other is from Canada) who has been actively practicing in the area for the past few years (See “A6. Guest Profiles”). Due to the language difficulty, the participants were those who were able to communicate in English. The students and professor from Lebanese American University, who ran their studio in parallel based on my program, also joined the conversation.

1. Conversation with the Nakanojo residents (Joint meeting between Roger Williams University and Lebanese American University)

(photo2) During our conversation on Zoom, the artists walked us through their studio space located in one of the former school buildings in Nakanojo.

Students were curious to see their rooms and how they used the old school building. (photo3) One of the participants, Yuki Takahashi, shared her story about her grandmother, who passed away alone in her house in Nakanojo. Such a story, called “lonely death,” is becoming common in rural communities in Japan, one of the problems in the aging society.

The story had an impact on many of the students, who then considered empowerment and inclusiveness of the elderly were the most critical aspect of a new program.

Before they had conversations with the local residents, the students watched given documentaries listed below and discussed Japan’s common rural issues in class. I noticed that many students were more engaged and could digest information better when learning from videos and spoken conversations.

1. “Is Japan A Dying Country?”

2. “Japan’s Country Towns Were Dying, Then COVID Happened” 3. “New life for old towns through sustainable tourism: Alex Kerr” 4. “65+ Being old in rural Japan”

3. The Nakanojo resident sharing her personal story that illustrates “lonely death” (one of the increasing issues in the aging society).

2. Artists showing us their studio space in a former school building, on Zoom

• Conversation with Dr. Emi Kiyota -- “Co-creating Environments: Empowering Elders and Strengthening Communities through Design.” (photo 1) Another guest was Dr. Emi Kiyota, the founder and director of Ibasho, an organization that facilitates the co-creation with elders of socially integrated, sustainable communities that value their elders (See “A6. Guest Profiles”). Students read her article “Cocreating Environments: Empowering Elders and Strengthening Communities through Design.” to prepare for the discussion before meeting with her on Zoom. (photo 2) In her presentation, Dr. Kiyota showed us an example project that created a place to empower the elders by allowing them to run the place, take the initiative to organize events, serve the community and make some earnings. The community space was built by retired elderly carpenters, which helped foster a sense of ownership.

She discussed the traditional view of an aging society that considers elders a burden to our society and that elders are vulnerable populations who need to be cared for by younger generations.

Therefore, the social role of the elderly needs to change from someone cared for to someone who cares for younger generations.

Dr. Kiyota also spoke of some challenges we want to keep in mind when designing a project in an aging society as follows: The mentality to protect elders creates dependency; Providing special services for elders creates ageism; Specially designed service/built environment create stigma; The agespecific design creates segregation; Excessive convenience/technologies create social isolation.

The discussion with Dr. Kiyota was constructive for students better understand the issues and reflected the understanding in their program proposals. Some students constructed narratives for their projects where the elderly members are the primary player in the place. For example, a

A CNA documentary, “Is Japan A Dying Country?”

1. Conversations with Dr. Emi Kiyota (Joint meeting between Roger Williams University and Lebanese American University)

2. Presentation by Dr. Emi Kiyota

• Analyzing context and existing conditions

Demographics

Minakami Total Population

Population Age Range

Minakami Japanese Population

Chuo-Ku

Minakami

Nakanojo Japanese Population Chou-Ku Total Population Chou-Ku Japanese Population The small towns have started to let more foreigners in at a slow rate but the city has a large boom of foreigners which could be a factor in the population growth.

1980

1985

1990

1995

2000

2005

2010

2015

Population Comparison

1980

1985

1990

1995

2000

2005

2010

65+

2015

1980

1985

15-64

As part of the context research, each group analyzed the existing conditions of the assigned school building and the immediate surroundings. They were provided with an extensive collection of interior and exterior photographs and videos and simple floor plans of the school buildings, thanks to the Nakanojo Biennale office. The reason for choosing those four schools this semester was the availability of such documentation.

2000

2005

2010

2015

1980

1985

1990

1995

2000

2005

2010

2015

Birth and Death Rates

Minakami

150,000 This graphic demonstrates the past present and future projected population of the three areas that were examined. As we see in 1980 the populations of the rural areas were very similar and not exceptionally far behind the urban area. In the current day the population is small in the rural areas but not much smaller than in 1980. Currently the urban area has almost doubled in population showing its increased growth rate in comparison to the rural areas. The projected population shows the urban space increasing yet again and instead of staying relatively the same the rural areas see a sharp decline. We can assume from this graph that people are moving from the rural to urban area and looking at the age range chart we can see that the younger population are the ones leaving for the city.

100,000

50,000

1980

1995

Under 15

Chou-Ku 200,000

0

1990

Looking at the age ranges from these three areas you will notice that the age ranges for the urban area maintains a steady rate and remains relatively stable. The opposite is true for both of the rural areas. In these areas the percentage of 65+ is increasing where as the percentage of under 15 is decreasing at an alarming rate.

We will also notice that both rural areas are declining at a relatively similar rate showing that the depopulation is not only a problem in Nakanojo but in every rural area as well.

Nakanojo

Students split into four groups, and each group conducted context research with a given topic, such as demographics, circulation, history, building typology, and environment. Each group also investigated Nakanojo’s primary, secondary, and tertiary industries.

Nakanojo

Nakanojo Total Population

Age Brackets

school where the local elders teach rice cultivation to students from cities; a restaurant where the elders cook the local dishes for and with the tourists; and a woodwork shop where the retired elderly craftsmen produce wooden furniture to be auctioned for some income.

2015

1995

2005

2015

Births

Deaths

Chou-Ku

Chou-Ku

Minakami

Minakami

Nakanojo

Nakanojo

Around 1995 the births and death rates between each place were almost the same meaning they would even eachother out and the population would remain stagnant. In 2005 the birth rates in Chou-Ku started to climb as the deaths remained the same. At the same time the rural communities saw a decline in the birth rates and slight increase in deaths.

In 2015 we again see the birth rates soar for Chou-Ku and the birth rates drop for the rural areas. The death rates for all the areas increased. We see that the city produces more than it loses meaning a population boom where the rural communities are dwindling due to lack of births even though the death rate has not drastically increased.

2045

Research by Group 1 -- Demographics

Crop Production in Relation to Gunma

• Challenges and opportunities Success | Group-to-group presentation: Learning from the conversations with the studio guests, articles, and documentaries was effective as students demonstrated a good understanding of the issues discussed in this studio. In addition, each group presented to one another during the research. Students were asked to present another group’s research, which was assigned to them after the group-to-group Presentation. Not knowing which group’s Presentation they had to give to the class motivated them to stay engaged. Students told me that they learned a lot from this process, and it was an excellent opportunity for them to talk with each other in the class.

Relation to Towns in Gunma

The earning power of all primary industries in Nakanojo over time is directly related to the population. The data collected from 2009 to 2016 shows that as the population spiked for a few years and then dropped down, the earning power did the same, although there was less of a negative rebound to the earning power than the decrease in population. This could be interpreted as the population growing accustomed to the decline of workers, and were able to mitigate the direct loss of manufacturing.

Research by Group 1 -- Demographics

Areas in Nakanojo

Areas in Nakanojo

500x500m areas

500x500m areas

Yellow: Rice/Vegetable fields Blue: Vehicular circulation Green:Industrial area Orange: Houses/indoor agriculture Purple: Takayama town Pink: Livestock

2000x2000m areas Yellow: Rice/Vegetable fields Blue: Vehicular circulation Green:Industrial area Orange: Houses/indoor agriculture Purple: Takayama town Pink: Livestock

2000x2000m areas

Research by Group 1 -- Agricultural fields

Success | Hand-tracing: Another successful process was to hand-trance the area maps, which was more helpful for them to become familiar with their project sites than studying the maps only on a computer screen.

Challenge | Visual representations: The research assignment challenged students to observe and interpret the collected information and translate it into graphics. From my observations, discussing architectural representation methods and types of graphics in more depth would have been helpful.

In addition, students commented that a workshop on Photoshop during the studio would have helped them. To sensitize students to the potential of architectural representations, in my view, not only exposing them to various types of graphic examples but also analytically and critically discussing the effectiveness of representations is necessary.

Challenge | Expanding questions: 5 - 10 mph The research also challenged students to expand on given questions to deepen their observations of the collected facts that could transform into architectural opportunities. In my view, questioning is fundamental to successful investigations. Encouraging them to develop the habit of questioning and critically observing the collected information was necessary.

Isama Studio Vegetation Built Structure

Isama Studio, in a mountain declining slop The surrounde neighbor bein

Isama Studio Downtown Nakanojo

Downtown Na The area is m plane, while b The area has much less veg

Tokyo, Japan highrise buildi surrounding a

Downtown Nakanojo Tokyo

The section o the drastic ele From the com of the landsca Flatter landsc mountainous

Isama Studio is located in rural Nakanojo, Japan. The surrounding area is relativly quiet, the closests neighbors are a country club to the left and a farm across the street to the right. The area is primarly populated by farm lands with residential structures near by.

Isama studio is engulfed by the densly wooded surrounding environment.

Downtown Nakanojo is located to the Northwest of Tokyo, Japan. Within Downtown Nakanojo there is a mix of residential structures and farm land. Here buildings are more closely compacted with more connecting roads, creating a grid like road system. The vegetation is primarly located out the outter edge of Downtown with some vegetation surrounding the river.

Tokyo is the capital of Japan is located on the Gulf of Japan. The city is densly populated

Tokyo with little vegetation. The city has a mixture of ultramodern and traditional architecture.

Isama Studio

Nakanojo, Japan

Downtown Nakanojo to Shima

15 - 20 mph

10 - 15 mph

School Locations

Area Affected by Wind

Research by Group 4 -- Land form and density In Nakanojo the strongest windes come from the Southeast and the Northwest with a velocity ranging from 15 mph to 20 mph. Wind from the West in East is primarliy blocked by the surrounding mountain on either Movement between the four sites in Nakanojo side. The weakest wind comes from the West ranging from 5 mph to 10 mph (Vehicular)

Movement between Nakanojo and Tokyo (Public Transportation)

Former Daisan Elementary School

Location of the four sites in Nakanojo

Nakanojo

Downtown Tokyo *Ueno Station Nakanojo Station

Nagan

ohara

Relationship of the Sites with each other and the greater city of Nakanojo

a

Numat

Shibukawa Station

Typical Public Transportation Route (1 hr 57 min) *From Downtown Tokyo to Nakanojo

Takasaki Station

Isama Studio Former Gotanda School

+

Tokyo Prefecture Hokuriku-Shinkanses

Primary Roads from

Former Sawada Elementary School

Challenge | Application of research: Another challenge in context research is discovering architectural opportunities, not only opportunities for new programs. Such discovery will require close observation of the immediate context and speculation of how it can translate into spatial or architectural opportunities. Discussing examples of projects from research to architectural proposals would have been helpful. This exposure may be in the form of watching lectures or presentations by architects and examining the relationship between their research and projects in class.

Saitama Prefecture adjacent cities and Tokyo

+ Agatsuma

Shima Onsen

Train Line

Train Line

Bus Line

Via Ueno Station

Via Takasaki Station

Via Shima Onsen Station

Saitama Station

Tokyo Prefecture Ueno Station

saki

Tok

Taka

yo

Secondary Roads *Linked directly to Former Gotanda School and primary roads

Movement between major cities in Gunma and Naknaojo (Vehicular)

Saitama Prefecture

Gunma Prefecture *Nakanojo

Movement between Tokyo and Naknaojo (Vehicular)

Nakanojo Nakanojo

Downtown Tokyo Route 1 : Maebashi to Nakanojo (48 min)

Route 1 (2 hr 34 min) Route 2 : Takasaki to Nakanojo (57 min)

Nakanojo

Route 2 (2 hr 18 min) Route 3 : Ota to Nakanojo (1 hr 15 min)

Tokyo Prefecture

Maebashi

Nakanojo District

Saitama Prefecture Maebashi District

Takasaki

Gunma Prefecture

Ota

Takasaki District

*Nakanojo

Ota District

Vehicular movement between major cities in the Gunma prefecture is very reliable and efficient.

A typical trip from Ota to Naknojo is similar to traveling from Bristol, RI to Boston, MA.

Movement between major cities in Gunma and Naknaojo (Public Transporation)

Vehicular movement from Tokyo to Nakanojo is equivalent to traveling from Providence, RI to New Haven, CT. The fastest two routes pass through the Saitama Prefecture as well

tourism industry + circulation

Nakanojo

Route 1: Takasaki to Nakanojo (1 hr 32 min)

+ Numata

Nakanojo

Route 2: Maebashi to Nakanojo (1 hr 23 min)

Naganohara

+

+

Route 3: Ota to Nakanojo

Maebashi

(3 hr)

Takasaki Ota

+

+

Route 4: Numata to Nakanojo (1 hr 29 min)

+

+

Route 4: Naganohara to Nakanojo (1 h )

+ credit: bodie ibraham

Research by Group 2 -- Accessibility of the town

Group-to-group presentation

Challenge | architectural documentations: Although students had access to a large volume of photographs, thanks to Nakanojo Biennale Office, documenting and examining the existing conditions of school buildings, both interior and exterior, was a challenge. As the floor plans to which we had access were diagrammatic, necessitating students to construct architectural floor plans from simple diagrams and photographs. In the future, researching the existing structure and Japanese building typologies in more depth will help explore architectural responses.

One group successfully examined the existing structure relating to the Japanese old measurement units, which inspired one student to expand upon it to conceive a new form of spatial intervention.

Emily Soares

Emily Soares

Overhangs were originally used for shade and to avoid snow collection. Most overhangs hang over outdoor spaces to connect to nature

Emily Soares Research by Group 3 -- Study of traditional form and spatial compositions.

Existing Site Conditions Interior Proportions

Ryan Parks

Existing Site Conditions Structural Proportions

KEN 間

Structural Grid

Existing Site Conditions Structural Proportions

Ken (間) is a standardized unit of measurement in Japanese Architecture. Based on the Chinese Jian this proportion was designed to measure land and calculate taxes. Ken is present in traditional Japanese architecture in pillar spacing.

Ryan Parks

KEN 間

WEST ELEVATION WEST ELEVATION Existing Site Conditions Structure and Building Envelope

Structural Grid

Ken (間) is a standardized unit of measurement in Japanese Architecture. Based on the Chinese Jian this proportion was designed to measure land and calculate taxes. Ken is present in traditional Japanese architecture in pillar spacing.

EVATION EAST PERSPECTIVE Ryan Parks

WEST PERSPECTIVE

EAST PERSPECTIVE

WEST PERSPECTIVE

STRUCTURAL DIAGRAM

BUILDING ENVELOPE

STRUCTURAL DIAGRAM

BUILDING ENVELOPE

Ryan Parks

Research by Group 3 -- Study of the existing structure and Japanese traditional measuring units

Primitive and Ancient History

●

Middles Ages and Early Modern Times

●

Primitive / Ancient ○ In Nakanojo Town, there are many ruins from each period of the Jomon period (13,750-500 BCE).

Among them are the Yadowari Ruins, Shimodaira Ruins, and Kamisawatari's Kumori Ruins in the Nakuta River basin. ○ During the Kofun period (300 BCE-538 AD), tumuli were built along each river in the town. Eventually, the Ritsuryo nation and Agatsuma-gun were established.

Middle ages and early modern times ○ During the Kamakura period (1185-1333), Mr. Azuma ruled the eastern part of Agatsuma-gun and Mr. Unno ruled Miharashi in the western part. ○ From the Nanbokucho period (1336-1392), he became Mr. Azuma Saito and was captured by Mr. Sanada and eventually killed. ○ Mr. Sanada, who continued for five generations, completed the town divisions such as Nakanojo, Haramachi, and Isemachi, and prospered as a market town. ○ Since the Kasei period (1804-1829) when Kusatsu Onsen became famous, the Sawando hot springs have been very busy and laid the foundation for the future of the town.. It has been handed down even during disasters such as the unprecedented eruption of Mt. Asama.

Iwabitsu Castle Ruins

13,750-500 BCE

300 BCE-538 AD

1185-1333

1336-1392

1804-1829

1889 1945 2010

1870-1878

● ●

13,750-500 BCE

300 BCE-538 AD

1185-1333

1336-1392

Cultural Assets

1804-1829

1870-1878

1889 1945 2010

1870-1878

1955

Emily Soares

Shima Potholes ● The potholes were created from thousands of years of Erosion ● Designated a cultural important property ● Shima Onsen Hot Springs ● The Gunma prefecture is well known for the hot springs ● Shima Onsen has a history of over 1200 years and over 42 springs ● The first “people’s Recreation Spa/Onsen” was opened in Shima Onsen in 1954 Nozori Lake ● This is an Artificial lake formed by the Nozori Dam ● It was constructed i 1956 ● Surrounded by mountains and makes for a photogenic landscape

Cultural Assets

Emily Soares

Nakanojo Museum of Folk and History ● The Museum uses the old Azuma Third Elementary School in 1885 ● The building was designated one of the important cultural properties of the town in 1978 ● It is now used as the historical and folk museum of Nakanojo as of November 15, 2010 ● Western Style Building from the Meiji Era ● The first floor is the Meiji reference room ○ Centered on politics, economy, industry, and military ○ The classroom at the opening speaks about the Japanese- Western architectural style and the history of Shiman Onsen and Sawatari Onsen ● The second floor of the main building holds the primitive materials ○ Pottery and stone tools from the Jomon and Yayoi periods

Emily Soares

Hinatamiyakushido ● Construction: 1537 ● Current hall built in 1598 by Kizaeon Kame and Fujiwara ● Tang-style building ● Designated a special building in 1912 ● Designated national important property on August 29th, 1950 Tomizawake Jutaku ● Located in Daido Village ● Opened during the Edo Period ● Construction: latter half of the Edo Period ● Echigo Rice is unloaded at this house and distributed across the district ● The second floor was used for sericulture ● Was donated to the Nakanojo town by the 25th generation owner in March 1986 Arafune Cold Storage ● Silkworm species storage site ● Located on the north side of Mt. Azumaya ● Once used for refrigerated silkworm storage ● The structure has a first floor and a basement floor made from stone wall ○ There is ice storage on the basement level ○ Silkworm seeds ● The site is in ruins and is an archeological site

Cultural Assets

Emily Soares

Shirakubo’s Tea Course ● Tea and incense have been popular since the 14th century ● This building houses the tea ceremony ● The festival day takes place on the 24th of Shirakubo Tenmangu Rokugo Akaiwa Traditions; Buildings Preservation District ● The buildings are located in the Akaiwa district ● Selected by the national government as the first important traditional buildings preservation district in Gunma prefecture in 2006 ● Sericulture village ○ Been practiced since the Meiji era ● There is beautiful scenery along the streets shows off the land from the Edo and Meiji periods

Silk Industry of the Gunma Prefecture

Emily Soares

The center of Japan’s silk industry was Joshu, which is the present day Gunma Prefecture ○ Women were mainly supporting their households by producing silkworms and later producing filature and textiles ○ Meiji Era to the end of World War II ○ “kakaa denka woman” means woman who controls the house ○ Causes Society in Japan to view women as self sufficient and hardworking

Silk Industry of the Gunma Prefecture

● ● ●

● ●

● Shirataki Shrine

1804-1829

1955

Emily Soares

Cultural Assets

Station of Flower Katashina Hanasaku Hot Spring

Mt. Asama.

Eruption

1889 1945 2010

Kuresaka Pass ● Plays an important role for transportation ● Connects the Kusatsu Onsen and Sawatari Onsen ● This place has been visited by people since ancient times ● The scene is a vibrant landscape with wild birds, flowers, natural trees ● The Makimizu festival has been happening at this location since 1922 ○ Held to honor Makimizu poetry Akazawa hiking course and Mountain ● People have been hiking this mountain since ancient times ● The trails goes from Shiman Osen to Hoshi Onsen ● At the end of the trail there is a flower garden ○ People generally travel here at the end of May to witness this

●

1185-1333

1336-1392

Cultural Assets

The Meiji Restoration continued to undergo major changes such as the abolition of the feudal clan and land tax reform, and the wave of civilization spread to the Azuma region.

In 1870, there was a case of Haibutsu Kishaku, and in 1878 various government offices were established in Nakanojo Town.

In 1889, the municipal system was enforced, and Nakanojo Town and Sawada / Isama / Nakuta Village were born.

Regarding school education, the school system was distributed in 1872, and the Azuma Third Elementary School was built in 1885 (later became the Nakanojo Town Hall, and is now the Nakanojo Town History and Folklore Museum "Muse" ) The Agatsuma Line was opened in 1945 during the recession from the end of the Taisho era to the beginning of the Showa era and the long war that followed.

After the merger of towns and villages in 1955, the current Nakanojo Town was born by the merger of towns and villages with Rokugo Village in 2010.

● ● ●

300 BCE-538 AD

1955

Modern History

●

13,750-500 BCE

Mt. Asama.

Former Obata-gumi brick warehouse

Nagai Method Sericultural School Laboratory House

●

Silk is made from silkworm cocoons They were bred in the house as if they were children or “Okosama” Silk became a principal export to acquire foreign currency during the period when Joshu became the Gunma Prefecture ○ This made sericulture flourish in the Prefecture Traditions ○ Families would make celebrational kimonos for generations Silk Textile Industry ○ The women that did this were called weaving women ○ These women would visit a shrine honoring Princess Shirataki ■ Introduced textile weaving to the region ■ The women would pray for improved techniques In present day Gunma craftswomen are celebrated to keep alive the silk industry culture By wearing the Kimono you are celebrating the women of the silk industry

Emily Soares

Historic Festivals

●

●

●

Emily Soares

Historic Festivals

Makimizu festival ○ On october 20th, 1922 Bokusui Wakayama crossed the Kuresaka Pass from Kusatsu to Sawatari ○ A festival is held to honor the Makimizu poetry preservation society and is held on october 20th every year ○ Nameko soup is served Takeyama Festival ○ Held on May 5th every year in conjunction with the festival at Chikato Shrine ○ The festival takes place in hope for healthy children ○ The people in town climb Mt. Takayama with 100 carp streamers Nakanojo Gion Matsuri ○ The first saturday in August ○ To pray for the prosperity of commerce ○ A procession of floats, parades and children singing songs ○ The festival also signifies the beginning signs of autumn

●

●

Tourism

Emily Soares

●

Most of the tourist population arriving in Nakanojo is Japanese residents in other areas of the country The tourist population is decreasing due to the overall population of Japan decreasing

Shima Hot Spring

Sawatari Hot spring Shima Hot Spring

Sawatari Hot spring

Torioi Matsuri ○ Takes place on january 13th and 14th ○ To drive away harmful birds and pests from agricultural products ○ Began in 1604 ○ Banging on drums in a main street and a parade through the city ○ Lively atmosphere at night Shirakubo's Tea Festival ○ A tea festival that takes place in Gotanda at the Shirakubo building ○ A cultural property ○ Ritual that has been happening for centuries ○ Serve tea in a ritualistic way and prepare matcha

Takeaways

● ●

Emily Soares

History Research ○ The Silk industry ■ has had a last effect on the community in the way the people view women ■ There are a lot of historical and cultural landmarks dedicated to the silk industry that bring in tourism ■ Sericulture in the past created a way of life for people for a very long time and gave the Gunma Prefecture a place on the map ○ Urbanization ■ The town was created primarily in relation to the large bodies of water ■ This shaped the purpose and tourist attractions of the town ● Hot Springs ● Water Parks

●

Tertiary Industry ○ Downtown Nakanojo ■ Major center in town for stores, markets, restaurants, government buildings, health care ■ The area in Nakanojo with the most accessibility and resources ○ Shima, Nakanojo ■ Largely a tourist area due to the hot springs ● Large quantity of hotels, day spas

●

Gotanda School ○ Closer to Downtown Nakanojo ○ On the side of a mountain ○ Area is in engulfed in trees ○ Small traditional building ■ One level, 6 spaces ○ The area is mostly rice fields/ farm land ○ Small road for point of entry ○ Potential for a community, artist, craftsperson space

Research by Group 3 -- Nakanojo history and cultural assets

東吾妻町太田小学校

中之条保育所

イヨクセミナー

Higashiagatsuma Choritsu Ota Elementary School

Nakanojo nursery school

Iyoku Seminar

吾妻中央高等学校 美野原農場

Agatsuma Chuo High School Minohara Farm

中之条第四小学校 第三分校 (蟻 蟻川公民館)

Arigawa Public Hall Elementary

Research by Group 4 -- Architectural language of local educational buildings

2. Program and Network • Feedback from Gunma Prefectural Women’s University students A group of students in the Department of Aesthetics and Art History at Gunma Prefectural Women’s University recently researched Nakanojo as part of their seminar project taught by Professor Okunishi. I coordinated with the professor to have an exchange of views on Nakanojo during the semester.

My students produced graphics illustrating their proposed new network and program for their projects. These graphics were sent to Professor Okunishi and her students for review, who later gave feedback on each RWU student’s proposal. (see “7. Program and Network Proposals” and “A5.

Feedback from Gunma Prefectural Women’s University”). Finally, at Roger Williams University, we reviewed and discussed their feedback and shared thoughts and observations in class.

Review in progress by students at Gunma Prefectural Women’s University

• Challenges and opportunities Success | Mutually engaging: The students in Japan told us that this exchange was also an excellent opportunity to stimulate and deepen their thoughts and that they reviewed the proposals with great interest. For my students in the US, it served as a way to connect and relate to the local voices of the unfamiliar culture. Moreover, it was effective and engaging since they received feedback individually on their ideas rather than general comments.

Students’ drawings sent to Gunma Prefectural Women’s University (See “7. Program and Network Proposals”)

Challenge | Timing: Due to their schedule in Japan, we received their feedback towards the end of our semester. Therefore, the feedback was not used for students to develop their projects, although the feedback and the discussion were still undoubtedly valuable. In the future, a live conversation with the students in Japan would provide exciting opportunities for students at both universities.

Feedback on each student’s proposal from Gunma Prefectural Women’s University (See “A5. Feedback from Gunma Prefectural Women’s University”)

Students at Gunma Prefectural Women’s University reviewing RWU students’ work

RWU students reviewing feedback from Gunma Prefectural Women’s University

describes its operation.

3. Design Explorations • Precedent Study Students were given two adaptiveuse precedents to analyze their spatial compositions and the ideas behind them. The exercise asked students to dissect the architecture and scrutinize the operations (methods and approaches of architectural intervention) implemented in each project. The intention of this exercise was to examine the relationship between the new and the old and its spatial implications. In order to stimulate their inquiries, each precedent accompanied certain language that might describe its operation, such as “cut, wrap, weave, juxtapose, insert, layer,” and so on.

Such language was given by asking them whether they agreed with the use of the language to describe each precedent. The assignment also asked students the following:

Adaptive Reuse projects can be categorized into m weaving, juxtaposing, parasitizing, inserting, cutting Operations:

Wrap

|

Weave

|

Juxtapose

|

Parasit

In this exercise, you will analyze two given preceden scrutinizing the operations (methods and approache project.

DATA Architectes Director’s H

Precedent Study by Emily

a) How does a new addition interact with the old spatially? (1. Circulation, 2. Spatial continuity and connection, 3.

Spatial perception, 4. Spatial volume, 5. Intentional change of movement or use of space, etc). b) What is radical/interesting about the intervention? c) How did the intervention alter the experience of the site? d) How did the intervention alter the experience of the existing building? e) How is the intervention affecting the identity? How do you think the identity of the building (or the community) has changed because of the Adaptive Reuse)?

The building is described as an insert operatio the original historic facade and and inserts a ne tion and interior condition. This allows the spac more room for activities and a different space e

The aspects of the inserted floors are the new an the cylindrical “floating” shape. The diagram the red as the new interior and the blue as th existing conditions.

The building has an interior staircase that is enc brick interior and along the cylinder insert. the screened from the multiuse spaces.

arch413_01_22Sp_a3

DATA Architectes Director’s

Precedent Study by Emily

The original building was gutted and replaced circulation. This new cylindrical shape allows ent feel to the building and more space with th floors.

The model display on the first level retracts to of the cylinder. This allows for extra bottom floo a multitude of activities.

The cylinder shape allows for a different quali than the original circulation. The cylinder is sp the existing structure envelope. This allows for to appreciate the history of the building and rea contrast.

Precedent Study (Emily Soares)

e categorized into multiple identifiable approaches, such as wrapping, ing, inserting, cutting, and so on.

xtapose

|

Parasitize

|

Insert

|

Cut

|

Layer

|

Carve

Operative terms introduced to students (Assignment 3)

e two given precedents in depth, dissecting the architecture and thods and approaches of architectural intervention) implemented in the Olivetti Showroom

Silesia Universi Television

Precedent Study by Alicia Vincelli

Precedent Stud

Carlo Scarpa created a beautiful and elegant space within the redesign of the Olivetti Show room. Scarpa was able to “insert” design elements to create a space to showcase the products of Olivetti. Furthermore, the idea of inserting is strengthened by the location of the showroo. The showroom is located in a shopping area within Venice, Italy. The space is “inserted” into the shopping center.The elements that were inserted into the space include the staircase and upper floor. The main focal point of the space is the main staircase. The focal point is further strengthened by the mezzaniene create by the two balconies drawing the visitors attention to the center of the space. Another way inserting is shown throughout the space is with the addition of windows. Windows were placed into the space to create a connection between the interior and exterior. One more place that the idea of intserting is shown is within the design of the staircase. The straircase has individual elements that are placed on a system of supporting dowels.

The Silesia University’s Radio and is located on what once was an only structure standing on the pl residential structure that stands 3 slim. At first, the structure was m but the owner decided to incorpo sign. This design decision led to the new structure into the surroun was accomplished by using mate made from the same manufactu structures. Including the existing s sign also allowed for the opportun the ground level that will spark int from the street.

Silesia Universi Television

Olivetti Showroom Precedent Study by Alicia Vincelli

Precedent Stud

Within the design of the Olivetti Showroom, Carlo Scarpa was able to leave his own unique touch on the space.

Through a beautiful and thoughful design Scarpa was able to turn the cold, glummy concrete structure into a masterpiece of its own. In an effort to draw the attention of people passing by, Scarpa inserted windows along the exterior of the strucutre to spark curiosity. The space has a main focal point which is the staircase that is further emphisized by the mezzainiene following it. Scarpa’s vision completely redesigned the space allowing it to fit perfectly within historic Venice, Italy.

The design of the Selesia Unive vision Department creates a str surrounding evnironment. With project had the opportunity to cre stand out from the buidlings sur designers chose to create a spa the surrounding environment by rials. The new structure uses th and inserting when comparing n accomplished when only looking on the site. The only on site existi engulfed by the new structure lea posed. Whereas inserting is acco at the surrounding area. The new into a vacant plot of land and is n existing strucutres. The new stru into the surrounding community.

New Facade Mimicing and Wrapping Old Structure

Precedent Study (Alicia Vincelli)

• Architectural inquiries As a continuation of the Precedent Study, students were asked to apply two operations they chose (not limited to what they examined for the precedent study) to their assigned school building without considering their proposed program. The intention was to focus on and discover spatial opportunities (ex., opportunities to create exciting or inspiring space) and architectural implications (ex., meaning or sense of identity that emerges from the spatial conditions). Similarly to the Precedent Study, they were asked to question the following:

Former Sawa

Operation 2: I

As previously stu ting, or thrusting s with care. It can a dition inserted in a

The program that include an extens yard walkway. Th original plan on th of insertion.

a) How does a new addition interact with the old spatially? (1. Circulation, 2. Spatial continuity and connection, 3.

Spatial perception, 4. Spatial volume, 5. Intentional change of movement or use of space, etc.). b) What might be radical/interesting about the intervention? c) How might the intervention alter the experience of the site? d) How might the intervention alter the experience of the existing building? e) How might the intervention affect the identity? How do you think the identity of the building or of the community might change because of the change you are making to the school building?).

Former Sawada

Operation 2: Insert

These are some of the m eration can create.

• Challenges and opportunities Success | Introduction of different perspectives: The use of space (program) induces certain images. For example, when you think of a library, you may associate it with the image of the library space you have seen or visited. The notion of use has spatial implications related to our memory; therefore, this exercise (*1) challenged students to examine spatial conditions without preconceptions of the types of space associated with their proposed program.

In addition, since students worked with existing school buildings for their project, the intention of giving students the precedents for analysis was to sensitize them to the idea of working with the existing building and make their design process more of a conscious and intentional act of altering the spatial experience. *1: The exercise refers to the precedent

Passerelle Tondo, “Tondo” 227

Passerelle Tondo, “Ton

Precedent Study by Abigail Arruda

Precedent Study by Ab

The Federal Parliament Building, also known as the House of Representatives, is in the historical center of Brussels. The Forum has adjunct offices and committee rooms in the recently built Forum building across the street. The footbridge allows for safer and more efficient access to these spaces.

This footbridge can be considered a use o parasitize.

In architecture, juxtapose can be defined ment of visual elements near one another, the contrast between them to highlight uni each.” By this definition, Tondo falls into t is a contrasting visual element that is place other elements of a very different style.

Kersten Geers David Van Severen describes the footbridge stating that when“viewed from above, however, the sculptural beam game of the structure is visible: an ‘eye’ on the world.”

Parasitize in architecture is defined as “a attached to an existing larger structure. I response to the need to solve common c Tondo is not a building, however, it is attac isting structures. It also solves a common necting two buildings with shared spaces w needing to exit the structure.

Juxtapose & Parasitize

Preliminary design exploration, above, and referenced precedent study, below (Abigail Arruda)

Isama Studio Darius Polillio Operation 1: Filling

Motives for filling were directed towards the interior of Isama Studio. Looking at the box that currently exists and designing new volumetric properties.

Each of their own style and of the same language of obscure visual and physical barriers.

Examples of design iterations include large masses of a larger footprint, low linear elements that influence circualtion, sloped geometries creating closed volumes of confinement as well open volumes enforcing freedom.

Operation 1: F Operation 1: F

Motives for fi Current cond the interior o conformative at the box th creativity in n designing ne interior.

Each of their The posed o language of Studio in this barriers. for creative o Examples of interior.

Allow large masse forms of spa low linear yo ele introduce circualtion, s closed volum open volume

Isama Studio Darius Polillio Operation 1: Filling

Motives for filling were directed towards the interior of Isama Studio. Looking at the box that currently exists and designing new volumetric properties.

Each of their own style and of the same language of obscure visual and physical barriers.

Examples of design iterations include large masses of a larger footprint, low linear elements that influence circualtion, sloped geometries creating closed volumes of confinement as well open volumes enforcing freedom.

A - Physical and Visual Barriers B - Physical Barriers

Isama Studio Darius Polillio Operation 2: Weaving

Operation 2

Horizontal circulation is accompanied by interruptions that introduce these visual connections between floors. The variey of opeingns allow for indiividual and unique volumetric properties among bothe floors.

The bottom floor is given more vertical spaces, giving a more open feel to the spaces indoors.

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Upper Right: V by openings on

Lower Left: D may occur (no

Lower Right: intersecting bu

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Preliminary design exploration, above, and referenced precedent study, below (Darius Polillio)

study and the study of their assigned school buildings using “operational language.”

Challenge | Stuck with “operation” The challenge was to test ideas with operative terms (ex. cut, wrap, weave, juxtapose, insert, layer, etc.) as a way to abstract and explore space without preconceptions associated with programmatic use. Furthermore, this task challenged students to consider the use of operative terms as a starting point for discovering spatial opportunities, On the one hand, I intentionally introduced this exercise after students proposed a program so that abstracting of space utilizing these operative terms became more of a conscious effort (i.e. willfully ignoring the program to examine architecture from the perspective of “space,” not “use”).

On the other hand, because students did the exercise after they proposed a program, it was challenging for some students to conceptually explore space without justifying and rationalizing the action for specific use.

If I give a similar exercise in the future, it may be helpful to change the order of this exercise so that it comes before the program is given to students.

New vs Existing (Matthew Herman)

New vs Existing (Alexander Hillemeir)

New vs Existing (Austin Jarvis)

4. Physical Model • Group work using CNC The assignment prescribed the scale, materials, and colors for the physical models. All existing-to-remain portions of the buildings were made of white matt boards, while all additions and modifications were made of specific color assigned to each school.

Former Gotanda School: Red Isama Studio: Green Former Sawada Elementary School: Blue Former Daisan Elementary School: Yellow This way, the architectural responses to each building are visible, which allows for comparative analysis.

• Challenges and opportunities Success | CNC milling Students suggested the use of the CNC machine to prepare the base models instead of constructing them with cut foam boards. With a few students taking the lead in coordinating the work, all groups successfully produced their context models that looked beautiful and consistent.

Challenge | Time The physical model assignment required students to procure materials and tools, prepare computer models for laser cutting, coordinate with each other and with other groups to collaboratively create base context models, and construct their own buildings to be placed on the base model. Considering the time, it would have been helpful to begin the conversation about model making before the Spring Break.

Starting model making process earlier would have allowed us to use the physical models for conducting a class-wide comparative analysis (between each student’s proposal) and discussing the idea of adaptive reuse and its architectural opportunities.

Physical models from all groups

Students creating context model with CNC machine

Model making in studio

5. Assignment Structure • Challenges and opportunities Challenge | Time After students produced preliminary designs expressed in plans, sections, and elevations, the subsequent assignments were to produce different types of representations, including bird’s-eye views, new-old exploded axonometric drawing, and views/ renderings. My intention was for them to use these outcomes as a design tool, not the final products, which would be refined and completed in their final submission at the end of the semester.

For example, a bird’s-eye view can be used to examine the relationship to the context as they design the building; the exploded axonometric drawing can be used to critically analyze the way they intervene in the old structure, which may help them make design decisions; views can be used to determine materiality and spatial compositions.

From my observations, further clarification on the purpose of these assignments would have been helpful.

Research presentation on Zoom

6. Presentations • Research Presentation The first presentation was held online, inviting quest critics from Japan, Lebanon, and the US. First, each group presented their context research; then, each student presented their proposal for a new network and program.

• Pinup presentation & selfevaluation The pinup presentation at the mid-point of the semester required students to evaluate their own and peers’ progress and the quality of work. In addition, students were asked to record their presentations and review their own recorded presentations for evaluation.

Conducting self-evaluation was also helpful for me to understand how they see their performance and progress.

After I collected their evaluations, I spoke with each student individually and gave them my feedback on their performance and progress.

Pre-final review on Zoom

In-house pinup presentations

• Pre-Final Review The Pre-Final Review was held online, inviting guest critics from various cities, including NY, LA, Zurich/Switzerland, Tokyo/Japan, and Beirut/Lebanon.

• Final Review The Final Review was held in person at the university.

• Challenges and opportunities Success | Mixture of online and inperson reviews: My intention of mixing the online and in-person reviews was that it allowed me to diversify the reviewers in terms of their cultural backgrounds and level of experience. It also allowed me to invite practitioners depending on the relevance of the conversations to the reviewers’ expertise and interest. For example, for the research presentation, I invited my colleagues from the fields of urban planning and architectural history who reside in Japan. Students commented that having guest critics from different parts of the world was a valuable experience.

New vs Existing (Emily Soares)

Final review

Final review

Isama Studio - Existing Isama Studio - Existing Nakanojo, Gunma Prefecture, Japan

Isama Studio Pottery Center - New Design

Nakanojo, Gunma Prefecture, Japan Alicia Vincelli Alicia Vincelli

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New vs Existing (Alicia Vincelli) Length Section Length Section

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Isama Studio Surrounding Landscape Section Isama Studio Surrounding Landscape Section

New vs Existing (Abigail Arruda)

Final review

Final review