Chihiro Art Museum Azumino 1997

Client : Chihiro Iwasaki Memorial Foundation
Design : Naito Architect & Associates

This art museum exhibits sketches and watercolors of picture book artist Chihiro Iwasaki as well as picture books and illustrations by artists from around the world. The museum stands in Shinshu Azumino in a rich natural setting that spans all four seasons and with majestic mountains in the distance.
Our design concept was "a bright and uplifting art museum fused with nature." The goal was an art museum open to the outdoors and a place where families can come for a visit and relax. We wanted a bright light environment that values ample natural light and space where not only children but adults and the elderly can feel at ease. To take advantage of the building design, we designed a flexible lighting system that is both simple and functional.