JAPAN TRENDS


On November 13th, architect Kengo Kuma and Komatsu Seiren unveiled fa-bo, a three-floor office for the fabrics manufacturer in Nomi City, Ishikawa Prefecture.

It is said to be the world’s first use of carbon fibers as earthquake-resistant materials. While unrecognized by Japanese architectural standards, carbon fiber is strong and light.







The fibers are set up outside the building, acting as seismic support if the structure if hit by a quake.

“Until now I had never thought that fiber and architecture were connected,” said Kuma, “but this has shown me new possibilities for architecture.”





The main structure itself is a minimalist concrete block, with glass windows and grass banks around the edges.



The renovated head office also features a showroom with exhibits and places for visitors to try dyeing and other hands-on experiences. From the roof garden, you can get a view of Mt. Haku and the Sea of Japan.