Multipurpose Hall,
Osawano Hall

Jan. 21,2025
Multipurpose Hall
Photo by Koichi Satake
Photo by Koichi Satake
Photo by Koichi Satake
Photo by Koichi Satake

Project Description

New Multipurpose Hall for community revitalization

Osawano Hall is a multi-functional facility developed as part of the Toyama City Comprehensive Management Plan for Public Facilities, which aims to reduce financial strain by systematically consolidating and extending the lifespan of public buildings.

The former Osawano Town Hall, before the municipal merger, faced several issues such as rising vacancy rates, deteriorating infrastructure, and insufficient seismic resistance. To address these concerns, a new complex was built to integrate public amenities—such as a hall and library—that had previously been scattered throughout the area, with the goal of revitalizing the local community.

The Multipurpose Hall needed to accommodate the roles of the former cultural hall, martial arts hall, and physical education center within a limited space. With a target capacity of up to 500 people, the decision was made to install a Retractable Seating System to maximize flexibility.

Fully Automatic Retractable Seating System for easy deployment and retraction

The Retractable Seating System installed in Osawano Hall allows for fully automatic deployment and retraction of tiered seating. With a remote control, the seats can be deployed or retracted at the push of a button, transforming the space quickly and efficiently.

Manufactured by Kotobuki Seating, the system is designed with built-in safety features to prevent operational issues. For instance, if the retract button is pressed while a handrail has not been removed, the system will temporarily halt, and an error message will appear on the remote control screen. This ensures smooth and safe operation, helping to prevent accidents during events.

The system also features a seismic damping design in both vertical and horizontal directions, which reduces impact noise and vibrations from foot traffic, while also enhancing earthquake resilience.

Mesh upholstery with excellent breathability and strength

The retractable seats are Type S models, upholstered with a high-durability 3D mesh. This material is both breathable and strong, offering comfort for long periods of sitting and durability for long-term use.

Despite their minimalist design, the seats provide ample cushioning in both the backrest and seat. When unoccupied, the seat automatically folds up against the backrest, helping to save space and maintain easy passage through the seating area.

Thanks to this seating system, the multipurpose hall now supports a variety of uses—from sports events to conferences and ceremonies, including coming-of-age celebrations. The reduction in downtime has also contributed to the revitalization of the community, making the hall a vibrant focal point for local activity.

Facility overview

Toyama City Osawano Hall, located in Takauchi, Toyama City, serves as a model for future public facility restructuring. Designed as a “multi-generational exchange center,” it provides a welcoming space where people of all ages and backgrounds can gather and relax, with the aim of fostering community connection and solidarity.
The facility includes an administrative service center, a community center, and a library, all under one roof. It supports community engagement by enhancing the functionality of public services and creating an active, lively atmosphere for residents.

Project Summary

Location
Toyama City, Toyama Map
Client
Toyama City
Design
SHIMIZU CORPORATION
Opened
Apr, 2023
Seats
250