in japan, the gifu prefecture is the largest umbrella manufacturing hub combining traditional-regional technology and contemporary architecture.
following that unique characteristic, tokyo-based HT design lab reveals a mesmerizing architectural prototype injected across the cities. 

HT design lab envisions versatile umbrella-shaped modules for urban uses
total unit gathering model (for regional shop and restaurant) / ground level view

 

 

influenced by regional materials and technologies, HT design lab proposes umbrella-shaped unit groups that can be assembled into a large building model. like a puzzle, individual structures are injected across the city and provide different functions such as resting places, bus stops, or small arcades — depending on the place. however, when combined into one building model, the prototype can turn into a large regional store and restaurant. 

HT design lab umbrella-shaped modules gifu japan designboom
interior view of the large building model 

 

 

furthermore, the prototype acts as a device that connects different regions to the city. in other words, the sub-units move throughout the gify prefecture while connecting with other groups and are integrated again into a large building model. 

HT design lab umbrella-shaped modules gifu japan designboom
partial unit gathering model at a station, acting as waiting spots

HT design lab umbrella-shaped modules gifu japan designboom
units inserted into a park to create resting spots 

HT design lab umbrella-shaped modules gifu japan designboom
the umbrella-shaped modules are located on the roadside, functioning as a bus stop 

HT design lab umbrella-shaped modules gifu japan designboom
in a pedestrian area, the prototypes provide an arcade structure 

HT design lab umbrella-shaped modules gifu japan designboom
design process: total material-technique flow 

 

 

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

 

edited by: lea zeitoun | designboom