Schemata Architects Reimagines Traditional Japanese Machiya for Modern Workspace
In Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, the renowned Schemata Architects, under the leadership of Jo Nagasaka, has completed a remarkable project, transforming the architectural landscape for Uchida Shōten, a hardware manufacturer with a rich 160-year history. The design of their new two-story wooden head office is deeply inspired by the historical urban fabric of the surrounding area, particularly drawing from the distinct townhouse culture that emerged along the old Tōkaidō road, known as Fujisawa-juku during the Edo period. This area was historically characterized by narrow, elongated plots, a feature that profoundly influenced the spatial organization of the new building.
The building's conceptualization stems from the traditional Japanese machiya model, which encompasses characteristic narrow and deep layouts, intricate wooden latticework, and a seamless integration of living and working areas. This architectural approach not only offers a refreshing change from conventional building designs for a company focused on building components but also injects a dynamic cultural presence into Fujisawa's historic Tōkaidō road. Adhering to strict budget limitations and a clear design philosophy, the structure is composed of a series of frames forming a singular, expansive box, prioritizing adaptability and longevity over ornate aesthetics. Its northern facade, featuring awning windows, opens towards the street, allowing natural light and the vibrant street life to permeate the interior, while inviting the building's internal activities to engage with the external environment.
The project\\'s architectural vision is largely shaped by the city's historical memory, particularly the Edo period's frontage taxation, which led to the creation of plots with minimal street width but considerable depth. These plots typically featured retail spaces at the front, residential areas at the back, and additional storage or sleeping quarters on upper floors or behind. Uchida Shōten's previous structures mirrored this layout, with offices or shops facing the street and more private functions tucked away. Although there were initial plans to restore the existing main residence, structural integrity issues and seismic safety concerns led to a shift in focus. Consequently, the new head office was developed first, establishing a modern foundation that continues to animate the site. Schemata Architects skillfully reinterpreted the machiya style to suit modern requirements, maintaining a similar footprint to the former office but reconfiguring its layout to foster public and cultural engagement. The front of the building now hosts an artist-in-residence area, directly interacting with the street, while the offices are situated towards the rear. This frontal zone serves as both the daily entrance and a communal space, and also welcomes external artists, designers, students, and international innovators for creative work and exhibitions. Behind the typically closed exterior, a compact living space, referred to as 'nedoko' (berth), provides essential residential amenities and a spacious loft accessible via a spiral staircase, facilitating temporary stays within the premises.
This project stands as a beacon of architectural innovation, demonstrating how historical typologies can be reinterpreted to meet contemporary needs while enriching the urban fabric. It exemplifies a thoughtful integration of past and present, creating a space that is not only functional but also fosters creativity and community. By blending tradition with modern design principles, Schemata Architects has crafted a building that resonates with cultural significance and forward-thinking functionality, contributing positively to the architectural narrative of Fujisawa.