Gym,
KANAZAWA COLLEGE OF ART

The new campus gym: A multipurpose hall for ceremonies and assemblies

The new campus of Kanazawa College of Art, which relocated in October 2023, includes a gym designed to function both as a sports facility and as a multipurpose hall. Equipped with a stage and an electrically operated retractable seating system, the space can accommodate a wide range of events, including entrance ceremonies, assemblies, and exhibitions. The arena floor is seamlessly connected to the Art Promenade, the campus’s main thoroughfare, enabling integrated use of indoor and outdoor spaces. In addition, the second-floor gallery overlooks the arena, offering a broad vantage point for observing sports activities and events.

Combining a retractable seating system and stacking chairs for flexible layouts

For audience seating, a Kotobuki Seating retractable seating system was installed along with matching stacking chairs. The retractable seating consists of tiered rows that can be deployed or stored at the push of a button. Using a remote switch, the seats fold automatically and the entire unit is compactly stored against the rear wall in a designated storage area.
This system is a Laser Guided Travelling Model, which allows the seating unit itself to move forward away from the storage wall. By positioning the seating closer to the stage, the hall can be configured to suit a variety of event requirements. When the entire arena floor is in use, the retractable seating is deployed from the rear wall and stacking chairs are arranged in front, creating a maximum capacity of 504 seats. For smaller events using only half of the arena, the seating unit is moved forward, providing 236 seats. This high level of flexibility enables the facility to respond effectively to different event scales. In addition, the moved seating unit can function as a partition, allowing separate activities to be held simultaneously on either side.

Distinctive black and gray chairs and padded stacking chairs

The chairs installed on the retractable seating system are the Type S model. They feature a simple design with molded polyurethane cushions covered in highly durable 3D mesh, ensuring excellent breathability. Finished in a refined two-tone color scheme with black backrests and gray seats, they present a calm and modern appearance. When not in use, the seats fold vertically against the backrests, balancing seating comfort with generous aisle space.
The stacking chairs are the FC-303D model. The backrest is gently curved to support the upper body, while the seat is shaped to fit the user’s hips for stable seating. To enhance comfort, the same 3D mesh padding used on the retractable seats is applied. A handle opening at the lower part of the backrest allows for secure handling during setup and removal. The loop-shaped legs provide stability and incorporate a ganging function, enabling chairs to be aligned neatly in straight rows. For storage, the chairs can be transported efficiently on a dedicated cart that holds up to 80 units, contributing to compact and orderly storage.

Facility overview

Since its founding in 1946, Kanazawa College of Art has fostered the preservation of traditional crafts and the development of regional cultural industries. In October 2023, the university relocated from its former campus, which faced challenges such as aging facilities and dispersed functions, to a newly developed site. The new campus features the Art Promenade and Art Commons for presenting educational and creative activities, as well as the Creation Garden, where students can concentrate on their work. In addition to the multipurpose gym used for sports and formal ceremonies, the campus also includes a theater for lectures and screenings. Characterized by bright, open buildings with extensive glass façades, the campus reflects the university’s commitment to openness and engagement with the local community.

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