Excerpt: Kibi Kogen N Square by Kengo Kuma & Associates blends co-working space and a cafe into a creative hub, designed with large CLT panels arranged at shifting angles. This open, layered structure fosters interaction and collaboration, reflecting the spirit of regional connection. The dynamic use of timber creates varied spaces that encourage cross-generational and interdisciplinary engagement.
Project Description
[Text as submitted by architect] A regional exchange and creative facility centering on co-working and a café in Kibichuo, a town located on the plateau in the center of Okayama Prefecture. A local company, Systems Nakashima took the initiative of developing the project.
CLT panels, of which Okayama is the largest producer in Japan, were used throughout the structure and interior. The CLT panels 2.2 m wide, 35 m long, and 21 cm thick, are stacked at varying angles across the site, with a height difference of approximately 4 m. The angular misalignment of the panels creates a variety of spaces and openings in-between.
The open space, which differs from the closed and repetitive impression of conventional CLT structures, represents the spirit of the facility’s theme of openness and collaboration within the local community, including the participation of local Okayama University in the co-working space. Through these spaces, a crossover of activities that transcend generations and industry-academia boundaries are to be expected.
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