What was the challenge?

The GLA Yatsugatake Training Center is located in the natural surroundings of Yatsugatake, the central ridge of the Japanese archipelago. 1 hall building and 5 accommodation buildings were newly built.

The challenge was to create an environment where trainees could experience the surrounding nature as it changes from season to season. It was also to give a unique signage to a series of 50 monotonous rooms. 

What was the solution?

One of the solutions was to use natural materials, such as crushed stones from the area for the outdoor signage. These include the entrance signage, signs that show specific plants such as wisteria trellis, and the area map. Another solution was to give the five accommodation buildings the names and colours of plants associated with the nature of the Yatsugatake. These are young leaves, cherry blossom, wisteria, zelkova and walnut. Furthermore, each of the 50 rooms has a different colour to express the nuances within nature, which changes with the wind, sun and moonlight.

What was the effect?

The colour in 50 rooms has been very effective for wayfinding. At the entrance of each building a colour bar will display the range of rooms inside. It is the symbolic sign of the building. The colored triangular wall in front of each room will navigate the visitors through the white corridors. Visitors can cross between wings with pleasure, walk along corridors and reach their desired room. The design creates a positive feeling and intends to inspire a sense of familiarity and respect for nature.