The sunshade awning is made of fire charred wooden panels which are traditionally used as siding on the houses of this island. The panels were tied loosely to a frame so that they would flutter slightly in the wind to evoke bird feathers. The structure is created with simple, and light materials that can easily be found even on this isolated island.34 mm steel water pipes were used as the main columns, and main beams.27 mm steel water pipes were used as the sub-beams, and D10 steel rods were used as the grid frame of the awning. We also employed a very light foundation system with spiral steel flat bar piles.

The form of the sunshade awning was conceived to flow contiguously from the existing house with its outer edges lower than the neighboring houses. In this way the roof fits harmoniously into the surrounding landscape of the village, without disturbing the serene atmosphere.

In the end, working with existing structures, traditional methods, and simple materials, we succeeded in creating an intimate village gathering place that promotes a pleasant feeling of being under the shade of trees.

Location of site: Kagawa prefecture
Program: restaurant, theater, gallery
Principal designer: Ryo Abe
Design team: architects atelier ryo abe
Site area: 1,100㎡
Built-up area: 429㎡
Year of completion: 2010
Text credits: Ryo Abe
Photo credits: DAICI ANO