This project was conducted to expand the function of an unmanned train station in the Hokuriku region in northern Japan, as a measure against a drastic drop in train station users and for local revitalization. An unmanned train station essentially has simple functions. By introducing additional functions, the train station has been transformed into a meeting point for local residents, a place where active communication occurs, as many people gather and depart from the station, encountering one another. The facility completed in this project has an open structure so that it can easily accommodate the needs of various events to be held there. Offering the opportunity for interaction between train passengers and others visiting the facility.
The project site, a former train lead-in area, is largely linear in shape. At the eastern end of the site is a small community, while the western side faces an expanse of paddy fields. The site serves as a barrier between the paddy fields and the community, shielding the community from the wind and snow of winter.
The project involved creating automobile and bicycle parking and passenger waiting areas. For this purpose and in consideration of site conditions, a long corridor has been created. The corridor is open so that it may be accessed at all times and used as an open gallery, where, for example, pictures can be exhibited.
The constituent structures are made of independent corrugated steel sheets which range in thickness from 2.7 mm to 7 mm. Their pliant, curved surface has enabled various profiles. Basically, they are of two configurations: they are either independent from the ground, or one end touches the ground. Both configurations have been chosen to achieve a desired degree of openness to serve different purposes. Zinc plating has been applied to iron parts to facilitate maintenance and in consideration of expected future change and exterior harmonization. Indirect lighting equipment is buried in the floor for special effect.
Semi-architecture is a structured space with new functions, comprised of a continuum of roof-wall plates which does not clearly separate the indoor and the outdoor. It has the potential of effecting various forms of communication.
ASSESSMENT:
A town hall
For these purposes, areas for automobile and bicycle parking, waiting and resting and plants, and anti-crime lamps are provided as the main features of the facility. These facilities are linked together, forming a chain of linked corrugated sheet structures that represent a row of train cars. As well, an image deriving from the name of the locale before the town-village merger and also of the train station, Ozeki, (same as the title of the second highest ranking wrestler in sumo, Japan’s national sport), has been applied to the design, thus adding a touch of dynamism to corrugated steel sheets.
Upon its completion, the facility was covered by the local newspaper, drawing public attention. As one of the promotional activities for train use, an exhibition of pictures drawn by local kindergarten children was held in a section of the facility. World-famous pianist couple, Mr. &Mrs. Seiler, gave a hometown concert here, in honor of the completion of the facility.
The facility has contributed much to improving the locale’s image, and many other programs are being scheduled for the future to fulfill the facility’s original objectives.
The construction of the facility has indeed changed the train station and its surrounding environment in a positive manner.