Takanabe Ninomaru: Revitalizing Heritage Through Design

Historic museum reimagined as a vibrant cultural hub

The Takanabe Ninomaru project emerged from a pressing need to breathe new life into a regional museum whose outdated displays had led to dwindling visitor numbers. Rooted in the town’s rich educational and cultural legacy, the redesign sought to reposition the museum as a focal point for community connection and heritage appreciation. Tomohiro Kaji’s vision was to create a space that not only preserves history but also inspires contemporary audiences to engage with their roots.

Central to the redesign is the concept of “a history of benevolence,” which is visually and intuitively communicated through storytelling elements. Located on the grounds of the historic Takanabe Castle, the museum was renamed and reimagined as a cultural hub. Every aspect, from curation and visual identity to signage and narrative flow, was meticulously crafted to foster a sense of civic pride and rediscovery of local uniqueness.

The exhibition employs innovative graphic and spatial design techniques to make history both accessible and visually compelling. Upon entry, visitors encounter a concept display with a prominent tagline, setting the tone for the experience. The exhibition is organized into thematic zones, each marked by symbolic signage, guiding visitors through the region’s history, including the legacy of the Meirindo school and the progressive policies of the 7th lord, Akizuki Taneshige. At the heart of the museum, layered acrylic panels display the succession of lords, with a striking red gradient representing the continuity of history.

Designed for intuitive interaction, the museum’s layout encourages a sequential journey through time. Visitors move through spaces categorized by theme and era, experiencing history as a narrative rather than a static display. The use of layered acrylic panels not only adds visual depth but also symbolizes the interconnectedness of past and present, making the exhibition both immersive and easy to understand.

The project faced significant challenges, including limited historical materials and budget constraints. Extensive research, comparative studies, and expert consultations informed the narrative-driven approach. Instead of large-scale renovations, the team leveraged graphic and spatial design to create a compelling and educational environment. This innovative strategy has been recognized with the prestigious Golden A' Cultural Heritage and Culture Industry Design Award in 2025, underscoring the project’s impact on art, design, and community engagement.

Takanabe Ninomaru now stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful design in revitalizing cultural institutions. By blending historical narrative with contemporary design, the museum serves as an interactive platform where heritage, education, and community converge, inviting visitors to connect with the past and take pride in their shared legacy.