The structure of Kibikogen N Square in Kibi-Chuo, Okayama Prefecture, uses cross-laminated timber made from hinoki cypress from the prefecture.
5:30 PM JST, April 20, 2024
KIBI-CHUO, Okayama – A coworking space with a layout and design overseen by world-renowned architect Kengo Kuma, opened in Kibi-Chuo town in Okayama.
The two-storey wooden building is called Kibikogen N Square. The exterior uses cross-laminated wood made from hinoki cypress from the prefecture. The facade on the street side has crystal-clear windows, allowing you to enjoy the city nature inside.
The second-floor coworking space can accommodate 25 people, with amenities such as a multi-function printer and internet access, as well as sofas and movable desks. After completing member registration, people can use the space and pay ¥1,000 for one day (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.) and ¥500 for half a day (four hours).
The first floor is available to everyone for free. Residents will hopefully use the floor to work or relax remotely, so the layout includes a dining area serving dishes made from local farm produce. The room is further furnished with sofas and long tables.
“This place is like a magnet where interesting people can come and get to know each other,” Kuma said at the building’s opening ceremony at the end of March. “It is a new model building for the region. I hope the townspeople know they have a place of their own and will come and use it.”
