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To have a roof over your head has a deeper meaning. It does not just bring people together under a given space and time, but instills a sense of deep security... Takashige Yamashita + Takashige Yamashita Office design seamlessly creates a dialogue not just with the surrounding, but also with the people of Yamanashi prefecture, Japan with his design of this undulating roof. The site glows in the reflection of a spectacular view of Mt. Fuji nearby as homes and farms spread out in its neighborhood create serene vistas; though with an understated air of desertion. Adding charm to three existing nondescript facilities for senior citizens, the design office creates an undulating wrap in the form of a wooden roof that as a bonus encloses a space that can be used as a nursery for the local children. The shady overhang of the roof also provides a community space for the local women to spend some leisure time socializing. The gentle curvature of the roof brings under its fold a sequence of scenery, dividing garden, lounge, lunch room, nursing room and the office. Lightly positioned in various angles, and opening to facilitate physical and visual approach from all directions, the roof is a sturdy structural form held in place by a steel portal frame. Set in reinforced concrete, 50 x 50 laminated veneer lumber (LVL) sits between the steel portal frames. To gain stiffness, LVL is wedged between two 9mm structural plywoods. The roof can cover a large span of maximum 10m with a thickness of a mere 86mm. The design exemplifies a simple form that when positioned rightly, transforms a dull senior facility into a happening community space. Especially bearing in mind that the best medicine for senior folk is to be surrounded by youthful chatter and the uninhibited exuberance of children, this space effortlessly adds life to living. check out the images on indiaartndesign.com
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community space, roof design, fluid form, architecture, interior design, design for children,
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