The Ichizu project, designed by coil Kazuteru Matumura Architects, is a testament to the power of thoughtful renovation and the preservation of history. This project in Osaka, Japan, transforms two long-abandoned timber outbuildings into a shared kitchen and community space, breathing new life into a family property while respecting its past. The renovation process is a delicate balance of preserving the physical traces of time and introducing modern functionality, creating a space that is both a nod to the past and a vibrant hub for the present.
One of the key aspects of the Ichizu project is the use of weathered materials. The existing rusted corrugated steel cladding is retained as a visible record of the property's history, while new interventions provide the durability and functionality required for contemporary use. This approach creates a deliberate contrast between the newly introduced elements and the weathered surfaces of the original structures, allowing both old and new materials to coexist harmoniously. The use of custom timber joinery, lauan plywood, stainless steel, and mill-scale steel in the doors, interior finishes, and kitchen facilities further enhances the project's aesthetic and functional appeal.
The arrival sequence at Ichizu follows the property's existing organization, with visitors moving between the main house and the storehouse before reaching the field, where the renovated buildings gradually emerge from the landscape. This layered approach not only preserves the spatial depth of the site but also introduces new public activity into an area that had long remained private. Today, Ichizu functions as a shared kitchen and a place for visitors to gather or rest while using the adjacent garden, making it a vibrant hub for the community.
The Ichizu project is part of a broader, incremental strategy to reactivate the entire property. The previously underused field has become Wells Garden, a shared garden, while the existing street-side storehouse has been lightly renovated and now operates as Tsuru no Negoto, a shop specializing in antiques and vintage clothing. Each component currently functions independently, with future plans including the construction of an additional kitchen near the main house to connect food preparation, the garden, and communal activities across the site. The name Ichizu, meaning steadfast dedication, reflects the intention to care for inherited architecture and adapt it for future generations through gradual, site-specific transformation.
In addition to the architectural design, Studio coil Kazuteru Matumura Architects developed the visual identities and logos for Ichizu, Wells Garden, and Tsuru no Negoto. The client also participated in the first Ikeda Women’s Network (IWN) capacity-building program organized by the City of Ikeda and received an IWN Challenge Grant, supporting the broader initiative to reactivate the property. The Ichizu project is a shining example of how thoughtful renovation can preserve history, create functional spaces, and foster community engagement.
