Company: Hiroshi Nakamura & NAP

Project name: Library in the Earth

Location: Chiba, Japan

Designer/ Architect: Hiroshi Nakamura & NAP

Manufacturer: Sumitomo Forestry Co.,Ltd.

Stakeholder/ Owner: KURKKU FIELDS

Library in the Earth, nestled within KURKKU FIELDS, embodies a unique blend of architecture, agriculture, and community engagement. 

Built as a space for contemplation and sustainable farming practices, the library is seamlessly integrated into the natural landscape. Buried underground, it restores the valley's incline and is enveloped by trees, offering visitors a serene environment for exploration. The library's design reflects a deep respect for nature, with a mutual aid structure symbolizing community support and a circular aperture allowing natural light to filter through.

With a collection of 3,000 carefully curated books, the library invites visitors to embark on a journey of discovery, with volumes categorized based on agricultural life and nature. Visitors can engage with books in unique niches illuminated by custom lighting, fostering a deeper connection with the subtleties of the natural world. The architecture, guided by the principle of moderation, prioritizes nature as the focal point, creating a harmonious space where humans coexist with the environment. 

Through its innovative design and emphasis on sustainability, Library in the Earth serves as a beacon of ecological stewardship and community empowerment within KURKKU FIELDS.

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