This fall, after about a year of construction, the “Aizawa Wood Works Factory’s Gallery” opened next to the studio. It is a newly built facility that takes advantage of the site where a warehouse was originally built. The architectural plan and interior were designed by Tomotsugu Yamakawa of CORARE ARTISANS JAPAN, an architect actively involved in operating a business that connects crafts and accommodations in Inami, Nanto, Toyama Prefecture. Aizawa Wood Works has been following Yamakawa’s endeavors, not only architectural design but also urban development, which ultimately led to the current commission. The signage of the building, door handles and tables in each room were designed by Masanori Oji, who has been involved in product design and direction for Aizawa Wood Works for some time. The space, completed with the efforts of many people from Toyama and Wajima in terms of design, construction and implementation, is filled with the charm of the wood itself, much like the appeal found in the company’s products.

The most impressive feature of the building is the wood street at its center. The tunnel-like space, surrounded by trees, is constructed using Noto Hiba wood, a tree native to the Noto region and was cultivated in the mountains by the previous generation. The foundation stones and benches placed outside reuse stones from the previous garden, echoing the history of Aizawa Wood Works throughout the space. Elaborate details, such as door handles adorned with impressive traditional motifs and signage utilizing the company’s placemat, were manufactured in-house and finished with careful attention