The Haruna Innovation Center designed by Naomi Sato Architects serves as the central hub for product planning and development for Haruna Beverage, located at the foot of Mt. Haruna in Gunma Prefecture. The design concept draws inspiration from the surrounding landscape, incorporating repeated gable roofs that echo the natural rhythm of the forest and mountain ridge.
The facility is structured around three primary functional areas to facilitate communication and innovation: the Office Area, the Innovation Area, and the Gallery Area. The office zone shapes a flexible workspace designed to encourage collaboration and co-creation through an open, free-address layout. The innovation area features a laboratory where researchers engage in sensory-driven experimentation. The gallery offers visitors a space to experience the company’s products and gain insight into its development processes.
all images by Kazumi Ogata
Naomi Sato Architects’s design balances openness and privacy
The architectural team at Naomi Sato Architects prioritizes a bright and natural working environment. The use of warm materials, such as wood, combined with controlled daylighting through roof gaps, creates a well-lit and green-infused atmosphere throughout the building. The zigzag layout defines distinct spatial experiences, balancing dynamic and quiet areas in the Gallery, while fostering a mix of open and private workspaces in the Office Area. This arrangement contributes to an open, balanced ambiance.
The structure employs a fireproof wooden framework, selected for its fire resistance, seismic stability, and cost efficiency. This exposed structural system enhances both safety and warmth in the interior. Sustainability measures include high-insulation roofing and walls, floor-supply air conditioning, and the strategic use of natural light, reducing energy consumption while maintaining comfort.
repeated gable roofs mirror the rhythm of the surrounding mountain landscape
the center’s form and materials reflect a balance between tradition and modernity
the Gallery Area offers visitors insights into Haruna Beverage’s product development
a zigzag layout balances dynamic and quiet spaces within the facility
natural light streams through roof gaps, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere
warm wooden materials contribute to a comfortable and inviting workspace
the Office Area features a flexible workspace promoting teamwork and co-creation
the design integrates open and private areas, enhancing spatial diversity
wooden-framed glass curtain wall allows views toward the North garden
Haruna Innovation Center’s design connects architecture and landscape
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project info:
name: Haruna Innovation Center
architects: Naomi Sato Architects
location: Ashikado-cho, Takasaki-city, Gunma, Japan
site area: 15,879.38 sqm
building area: 1,012.97 sqm
total floor area: 1,497.27 sqm
first-floor area: 927.97 sqm
second-floor area: 566.30 sqm
lead architects: Naomi Sato, Yuta Otsuka
structure: MID Architectural Structure Laboratory – Masahiro Kato, Seiya Maki
equipment: Chiku Engineering Consultants – Takeshi Chiku, Kodai Mineta, Akari Gokita, Kenta Kuniyoshi
construction: Sata Construction & Saving Industry. JV – Norihiko Yamaji, Yoichi Moroda
design & construction (exhibition): TANSEISHA – Yuji Mukoyama, Takuya Shoji
photographer: Kazumi Ogata
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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom
NSA
feb 07, 2025
