Museum: A Quayside Building Intimately Linked with the Marine Environment

Embracing Nature and Culture in Tanabe, Japan

From a boat, the quayside building seems to float on the sea, while from a car, it gives the incredible impression of swaying, perfectly blending with the visual qualities of the marine environment. This effect is achieved through the clever design of a glass wall and an inner solid wall, which have different properties and create an unlikely but beautiful visual experience. The museum's facade features warm terracotta, wood-painted glass art, and thin columns, creating a sense of unity with nature and seamlessly integrating the building into the surrounding scenery.

The museum's design not only captivates visitors with its stunning aesthetics but also provides a functional space for cultural activities. The front entrance leads to the main hall, where shops are lined up along the hallway, offering a vibrant atmosphere. On the sea side, a wood-painted glass art installation, terracotta facades, and thin columns greet visitors, guiding them to the lounge area, which provides a relaxing space for contemplation and enjoyment.

Constructed using steel, terracotta, glass, and aluminum, the museum boasts a total floor area of 977.45m2. With a width of 27.5m, length of 36.2m, and height of 9m, the building stands as a prominent landmark in the Tanabe waterfront area.

The design of the museum was not without its challenges. The architect aimed to coexist with nature and have a positive impact on marine activities and the waterfront without spoiling the landscape. By carefully selecting materials and incorporating elements that reflect the environment, the building naturally blends into its surroundings, offering a harmonious connection between architecture and nature.

The Museum in Tanabe is a testament to the importance of historical background and community involvement in design. Through thorough research on the historical significance of Mori Bay and the characteristics of buildings around the bay, the architect ensured that the design would stand at the heart of local people's lives. The area's wharf construction began in 1934, transforming the small local bay into a gateway to the sea for the city of Tanabe. Despite severe damage from the Nankai Earthquake in 1946, the port was restored through the efforts of local citizens. Today, it serves as an essential port supporting local industries. The museum's design reflects this rich history and welcomes the local community.

The Museum in Tanabe has received recognition for its outstanding design. In 2020, it was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Architecture, Building, and Structure Design category. This prestigious award acknowledges the museum's creative ingenuity, technical excellence, and contribution to quality of life improvements. By incorporating best practices in art, science, design, and technology, the museum stands as a testament to the power of architecture to make the world a better place.