a cluster of gabled volumes comprises roote’s animal hospital in japan
all images courtesy of roote

 

 

 

in the japanese city of kinokawa, local architecture practice roote has completed a cluster of eight structures that together serve as the region’s animal hospital. despite its relatively small footprint of 150 square meters, the scheme contains more than 20 individual volumes, including a variety of examination, consultation and treatment rooms.

 

externally, the distinctive shape of the colorful gabled buildings calls to mind the form of a traditional dog kennel, with each structure protruding at a different angle. a gentle ramp leads to the hospital’s entrance, while in order to guard against potential flooding from the nearby river, the site is elevated one meter above ground level.

roote architects yui animal hospital kinokawa japan designboom
the cluster of eight structures serves as the region’s animal hospital

roote architects yui animal hospital kinokawa japan designboom
the project has a relatively small footprint of 150 square meters

roote architects yui animal hospital kinokawa japan designboom
the scheme contains more than 20 individual internal volumes

roote architects yui animal hospital kinokawa japan designboom
the distinctive shape of the gabled buildings calls to mind the form of a traditional dog kennel

roote architects yui animal hospital kinokawa japan designboom
the reception area

roote architects yui animal hospital kinokawa japan designboom
the plan includes a variety of examination, consultation and treatment rooms

roote architects yui animal hospital kinokawa japan designboom
large windows present views of the passing street

roote architects yui animal hospital kinokawa japan designboom
internal spaces are brightly lit throughout

roote architects yui animal hospital kinokawa japan designboom
the approach to the animal hospital

roote architects yui animal hospital kinokawa japan designboom
the staggered series of gabled volumes

roote architects yui animal hospital kinokawa japan designboom
a gentle ramp leads to the hospital’s entrance

 

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roote architects yui animal hospital kinokawa japan designboom
 
roote architects yui animal hospital kinokawa japan designboom
 
roote architects yui animal hospital kinokawa japan designboom
 
roote architects yui animal hospital kinokawa japan designboom