Hotel garden as a new cultural anchor for community and visitors
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DETAILS

LocationKyoto, Japan
ClientAsai Ken Architectural Research Inc.
SERVICE:
Size0.65 ha

This project transforms an old elementary school site into an iconic destination for visitors and community. SWA reinterpreted the traditions and culture of Kyoto and proposed a poetic landscape design for this former schoolyard, transforming it into a welcoming community garden and courtyard.

The courtyard, as a public space, is designed simply, providing flexible usage for seasonal events, festivals, art exhibitions, and ceremonies. Within its simplicity, SWA brought diverse cultural design elements to the courtyard including a foot bath, moon mirror, haiku, water well, and teahouse, all to inspire users to interact with each other and initiate conversation about the culture, history, and legacy of Kyoto. Local plants were employed for efficient irrigation and maintenance.

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