Situated in the eastern sector of Tokushima City, the former newspaper printing center of the Tokushima Shimbun Company underwent a remarkable transformation in 2023. Following the relocation of its operational functions, the center, now under the ownership of Tokushima Prefecture, was repurposed into the innovative Okinosu Indoor Park. This adaptive reuse initiative emerged as a response to a comprehensive design competition organized by the prefectural authorities, focusing on the center’s utilization in both regular circumstances and disaster scenarios.

Designing for Resilience: Okinosu Indoor Park

Marked by its reversible design, Okinosu Indoor Park at the Eastern Tokushima Prevention Center exemplifies a connection between routine conditions and disaster periods. Inaugurated in September 2023, the park has swiftly become a vibrant hub, especially for families with children. Preserving the historical significance of the newspaper printing center, the facility was meticulously crafted to serve dual purposes, seamlessly transitioning between routine and disaster-related functions.

Innovative Repurposing for Community Engagement

The former shipping center, once a hub for loading newspapers onto trucks, now houses a cafe space with a meticulously adapted kitchen. The indoor/outdoor partition features a novel polycarbonate sliding door, facilitating disaster entry while serving as a shoji screen during routine conditions. The adaptable design includes movable shipping pallets, eliminating elevation changes, and a daily-use seawall beneath the counter, adding a touch of serendipity for users.

Readiness for Disaster Response

The emphasis on Okinosu Indoor Park’s potential as a “Transportation hub for disaster relief supplies” is reflected in its design. The facility stands ready to function as a temporary evacuation center during disasters, ensuring the safety and well-being of the community. The use of movable elements and strategic adaptations underscores its role as a resilient and versatile space.

Visual Identity and Signage: Melding Tradition with Modern Appeal

The visual identity and signage design, spearheaded by Mr. Kishino of 6D, seamlessly integrates with the remnants of the newspaper printing center. Scaffolding pipes and tarpaulins are employed to create signage, adding an appealing, rugged spaciousness that complements the overall atmosphere. This thoughtful approach enhances the connection between the past and the present, creating a unique visual language for Okinosu Indoor Park.

Conclusion: A Beacon of Adaptive Reuse

Okinosu Indoor Park not only breathes new life into a disused printing center but also stands as a beacon of adaptive reuse and community-centric design. GEO-GRAPHIC DESIGN LAB’s ingenuity in crafting a space that seamlessly transitions between routine and disaster functions sets a commendable precedent for the integration of architecture with community resilience.