“Kizuki no Mori”: a forest of books
Kengo Kuma and Associates recently completed this Chikujō City Public Library, reprocessing a former public hall in a timber-filled urban space in rural Fukuoka, Japan.
In a quiet landscape, the new library it presents a low, extended form whose edges are softened by a vertical field wooden blinds. These thin members gather along it facade and entrance canopy, where they tilt and ventilate outwards, forming a porous threshold between the city and the interior. Their dimension allows light to pass through while mitigating the scale of the existing structure.
the entrance of the Chikujō library is flanked by wooden shutters that rise to a dome | images ©︎ Masaki Hamada / Mr
a wooden canopy frames the arrival
Approaching the entrance to the Chikujō library, the blinds rise and bow in a wide dome that group at Kengo Kuma and Associates design to frame the main access point. The structure reads as both an enclosure and a filter, offering shade while guiding movement towards the doors. The rhythm of the wooden elements creates a changing pattern across the ground, marking the transition from the open square to the covered approach.
This exterior intervention is carried over to the interior, where the same tongue of vertical timber defines the central atrium. Here, Keichiku cypress (hinoki) is arranged in angular rows that extend upwards from floor to ceiling, tracing a series of branching geometries that organize circulation.
vertical timber members form a gentle threshold between the city and the interior
Kengo Kuma transforms a concrete hall
Inside the former public hall, the introduction of timber by Kengo Kuma and Associates changes both scale and atmosphere. The original concrete frame remains legible, but is softened by the density and warmth of the wood. Light filters through the upper levels and moves to the corner members, creating a multi-layered interior that shifts throughout the day.
Stairs and corridors pass between these wooden complexes, offering a variety of vantage points throughout the library. From the upper floor, the layout is revealed as a continuous field rather than discrete elements to guide visitors to reading areas and open seating without fixed boundaries.
the atrium is defined by corner hinoki rails that guide movement through the building
spaces for movement and gathering
At ground level, the Chikujō library introduces a series of circular and stepped platforms integrated with low shelves. These elements support reading, play and informal gathering, allowing children to move freely while remaining connected to books. The surfaces are finished in warm wood tones, with soft edges that encourage sitting and climbing.
Above, the second floor changes the tone. Open stacks are arranged with greater regularity and seating areas are positioned for longer study periods. The ceiling grid and exposed services remain visible, giving the space a simple character that contrasts with the more animated ground level.
the wooden structures extend from floor to ceiling throughout the central space
children interact with books through stepped platforms and built-in shelves
