Shio Architect Design Office Creates Timber Daycare Center
The Himi Shinmachi Daycare Center, designed by Shio Architect Design Office – Ataru Shio, is a new two-story wooden facility located in the center of Himi City, Toyama Prefecture, Japan. The project replaces a nursery that had been in operation for nearly 50 years and was commissioned through a selective tender process aimed at developing high-quality public architecture at a local scale.
The design seeks to create an educational environment that supports early childhood learning while serving as a recognizable civic presence within the community. The building’s placement was determined by the constraints of the site, an elongated plot running north to south, bisected by an existing underground sewer line. To accommodate this condition, the structure is positioned to one side of the pipeline, optimizing both usable space and access to natural light. Constructed using a traditional wooden framework system, the daycare employs locally sourced timber supported by the Forestry Agency’s regional materials subsidy program. This approach not only reinforces the connection to local craftsmanship but also promotes the sustainable use of regional resources.
all images by Satoshi Asakawa
Wooden curved interior promotes safety and Tactile Learning
Given the limited number of sunny days in the Hokuriku region, the design prioritizes natural illumination. Large openings and an open spatial layout allow interior areas to remain bright even under overcast conditions, providing children with a comfortable and active indoor environment. Safety and sensory experience also guided the design: sharp corners are minimized to prevent injuries, and authentic materials such as wood and tile are used throughout, offering children direct tactile contact with natural surfaces from an early age.
The result is a community-centered public building by Shio Architect Design Office, led by architect Ataru Shio, that balances environmental responsiveness, spatial clarity, and material honesty, supporting both early education and the local built culture of Toyama Prefecture.
the Himi Shinmachi Daycare Center is located in the heart of Himi City, Toyama Prefecture
designed by Shio Architect Design Office, the project replaces a 50-year-old nursery
the two-story wooden structure serves as both an educational and civic space
authentic materials like wood and tile create a tactile learning environment
the building’s form responds to the site’s narrow, north–south orientation
the structure is built to optimize daylight and usable space
a traditional wooden framework forms the building’s structural system
locally sourced timber reinforces the connection to regional craftsmanship
the design ensures bright, comfortable interiors throughout the year
the open layout encourages movement and play for young children
children experience natural textures and materials in their daily surroundings
the daycare center embodies environmental responsiveness and material honesty
sharp corners are minimized to enhance safety within active play areas
project info:
name: Himi Shinmachi Daycare Center
architect: shio architect design office – Ataru Shio | @atarushio
location: Himi City, Toyama Prefecture, Japan
floor area: 982.56 sqm
construction/contractor: Higashi Kogyo, Himi Civil Engineering, and Hamai Joint Venture
photographer: Satoshi Asakawa
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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom
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