Nago Agri Park: Redefining the Foodscape Experience

Farm & Craft design blends agriculture, nature, and community in Okinawa.

The Nago Agri Park project in Okinawa stands as a testament to innovative spatial design, inspired by the themes of “Farm & Craft” and “Green.” Koichi Tomiyama’s vision utilizes materials evocative of agriculture—wood, earth, and jute—integrating them with lush greenery and earth-toned furnishings. Handcrafted decorations, made from burlap and hemp rope, and walls plastered with local soil, highlight a deep collaboration with regional artisans, creating an environment that feels both organic and inviting.

A unique aspect of the park is its “Foodscape” concept, a fusion of food and landscape, which invites visitors to eat, touch, grow, and connect with food and nature. This approach transforms the cafe into an interactive hub where edible plants are part of the decor, and ambient music composed specifically for the space enhances the sensory experience. The design encourages guests to relax with locally sourced coffee and juices while appreciating the seamless integration of food and landscape.

The renovation maximizes the existing greenhouse structure, with hemp ropes wrapped around columns and burlap draped over ceiling frames, serving as both decoration and sunshade. Local artisans applied traditional plaster finishes using regional soil, reinforcing the connection to place. Outdoor and tiled benches, designed as hybrids between architecture and furniture, further blur the boundaries between built environment and natural surroundings.

Spanning a total floor area of 3,800㎡, with the Foodscape Cafe occupying 500㎡, the facility was reimagined to address declining usage and to bridge the gap between farmers, citizens, and tourists. Situated in the Yanbaru region, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, the park leverages its rich agricultural context to foster new forms of community engagement and value creation. The project’s success lies in its ability to create a welcoming, educational space that supports both local producers and visitors.

Budget constraints posed significant challenges, prompting the design team to select affordable yet thematically aligned materials such as burlap and hemp rope. Close collaboration with contractors ensured that each technical hurdle was addressed efficiently, resulting in a space that is both cost-effective and visually impactful. The project’s innovative approach and strong technical execution earned it the Silver A' Design Award in 2025, recognizing its excellence in interior space and exhibition design.

Nago Agri Park exemplifies how thoughtful design can revitalize public spaces, foster community, and celebrate local culture. By merging agricultural heritage with contemporary design, the park sets a new standard for interactive, sustainable environments that invite exploration and connection.