The Ichizu project, designed by coil Kazuteru Matumura Architects, is a testament to the power of thoughtful renovation and the preservation of history. This project in Osaka, Japan, transforms two long-abandoned timber outbuildings into a shared kitchen and community space, all while respecting the site's layered history and character. The renovation process is a delicate balance of preserving the past and embracing the future, with a focus on durability and functionality. The use of weathered materials, such as rusted steel and custom timber joinery, creates a unique contrast between the old and the new, allowing both to coexist harmoniously. The arrival sequence is carefully designed to reveal the renovated buildings gradually, preserving the spatial depth of the site and introducing new public activity into a previously private area. The project's name, Ichizu, reflects the intention to care for inherited architecture and adapt it for future generations through gradual, site-specific transformation. The broader initiative to reactivate the entire property includes the creation of Wells Garden, a shared garden, and Tsuru no Negoto, a shop specializing in antiques and vintage clothing. The client's participation in the Ikeda Women’s Network (IWN) capacity-building program and the receipt of an IWN Challenge Grant further emphasize the project's impact and the importance of community engagement in the revitalization of inherited spaces.
