Akihisa Hirata Architecture Office . photos: © Shinya Kigure
The purpose of this building is to create a unique space that goes beyond being just an apartment complex and a store. Named “Plaza Q” it was envisioned to revitalize the city of Maebashi by transforming a former parking lot into a community hub. The design draws inspiration from the circular villages of the Jōmon period, aiming to integrate living spaces and create a welcoming plaza open to all.
The innovative concept involves residential buildings above a plaza with shops and a courtyard below, giving the impression of a single tree. By incorporating diagonal walls, the design seeks to connect spacious interiors with green gardens, fostering a sense of harmony with nature.
Ultimately, the vision is to create a living environment that promotes a “green and bright” lifestyle, transcending conventional architectural norms to form a cohesive and uplifting community space.
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