NKS Architects' Kaori Suehiro and Nobuko Suehiro are behind the Meiken Kogyo Head Office project, located in the heart of Maniwa City, Japan. Spanning 991 square meters in size, the project was completed in 2019 and spotlights a diagonal lattice structure made with laminated "Rishigumi" lumber.
The wood-clad facade combines v-shaped beams and roofing with warm wood interior finishes, creating a seamless flow from the outside in. The east side of the building features a common area along with two levels of office spaces which are connected with a central atrium feature.
Additionally, the NKS Architects team created a custom "system that wraps the outer skin of this integrated space with a sufficient heat insulating material and an air barrier that keeps airtightness, and circulates fresh air whose temperature and humidity are adjusted."
Laminated Lumber Architecture
NKS Architects' Meiken Kogyo Head Office is Sculptural
Trend Themes
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2. Laminated Wood Materials - Potential for utilizing laminated wood for structural elements in buildings, offering strength and aesthetic appeal.
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Industry Implications
1. Architecture - Opportunity for architects to push the boundaries of design and create visually stunning structures.
2. Wood Manufacturing - Potential for wood manufacturers to innovate and produce laminated wood materials for various applications in construction and design.
3. Green Building - Chance for companies specializing in sustainable building solutions to provide products and services that meet the demand for energy-efficient and environmentally friendly structures.