Yurihonjo City Cultural Center/ Kadare

Description

This is a complex facility composed of theatre, library, shop and daily support functions in Yurihonjo City, Tohoku district, Japan, designed through a workshop with citizens. According to the principle that 1+1 equals more than 3, synergy effects were achieved through discussions with locals and their involvement. We created a local souvenir shop with a convenience store function, providing meal support for the elderly. Although the town is very snowy in the winter, 600,000 visitors come every year to a town of 80,000.

Statement of the jury

People born and raised in the area were involved in the meticulous planning of this imposing complex, in which humans, their daily lives and their culture are the centre of attention.