Suehiro Nagaya: Revitalizing Traditional Architecture in Osaka

Preserving the Essence of Nagaya Culture

What we call modern Nagaya in Osaka is characterized by wooden structures and earthen walls. Each unit shares its side walls with its immediate neighbors, and the roofs are connected, forming a cohesive Nagaya complex. With Suehiro Nagaya, the design team aimed to review and update the traditional layout of rooms, keeping the floor plan intact while incorporating modern design principles.

By standardizing the renovation method, Suehiro Nagaya ensures that quality living can be passed down even in rental housing. The design team focused on six key points to achieve this: utilizing the front yard, distinguishing between original and newly-installed materials, creating deeper space under the eaves by reducing the building size, compact water areas, allowing for DIY customization, and providing a manual for seismic reinforcement.

The structures of Suehiro Nagaya are made from wood and earthen walls, staying true to the traditional materials used in Nagaya architecture. The result is a harmonious blend of old and new, where the essence of Nagaya culture is preserved while offering modern comforts.

With a dedicated area ranging from 59.40 to 75.02 square meters, Suehiro Nagaya provides ample space for comfortable living. The renovation project started in November 2011 in Osaka City, Japan, and continues to this day as the design team seeks to revitalize Nagaya architecture one unit at a time.

Through the renovation of 21 Nagaya with 12 units in Osaka City, the design team aims to rebuild the unique community that Nagaya culture once fostered. By renovating vacant houses with minor changes, they hope to create human connections and preserve the heritage of Nagaya architecture.

Suehiro Nagaya faced the challenge of a decreasing number of Nagaya due to aging and development. As demolition progressed, the vibrant community that Nagaya culture created was gradually being lost. This project seeks to reverse that trend and revive the spirit of Nagaya in Osaka.

Photographer Yuko Tada beautifully captures the essence of Suehiro Nagaya, showcasing the harmonious blend of traditional and modern elements in this revitalized residence.

Suehiro Nagaya was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in 2019 in the Architecture, Building, and Structure Design category. This prestigious award recognizes the outstanding creativity and ingenuity of the design, which incorporates best practices in art, science, design, and technology. Suehiro Nagaya contributes to improving the quality of life and preserving cultural heritage, making it a deserving recipient of this accolade.