kazuyo sejima plans sculptural tsuruoka city cultural hall in japan

further images have been revelead of the tsuruoka city cultural hall in northern japan, designed by kazuyo sejima of SANAA. the scheme, which was chosen as the winning competition entry in 2012, sees sculpted white planes draped over the building’s steel frame, envisioned as a fluid extension of the landscape. articulated around a centrally positioned auditorium, the entire program is spread across a single storey, enabling free circulation and open access throughout the complex. additional programs include a rehearsal and practice rooms, changing facilities, a lounge and a café.

from an environmental perspective, groundwater is stored and recycled on-site while natural subterranean reservoirs naturally cool and heat interior spaces, with hallways positioned to create a natural flow of continuous ventilation. the electrical, mechanical and generator rooms are located in a satellite structure reducing noise levels within the main building and allow easy maintenance.

all images courtesy of kazuyo sejima / tsuruoka city cultural hall

the folded planes viewed from the passing street

the auditorium sits at the heart of the cultural center

site plan

plan detailing surrounding landscaping

auditorium floor plans

elevations detail the design’s sculpted nature

sectional drawings of the single storey plan