WINDOW RESEARCH INSTITUTE

Completed after the architect’s passing, this building is one of a cluster of works by Tomoya Masuda in the city of Naruto. Outwardly, it exhibits a weighty presence with its high-contrast design defined by closely spaced louvers, which are regulated by a modular proportioning system. The rigid feel extends to the adjoining plaza and is amplified by the neighboring Welfare Center, also designed by Masuda. Internally, however, an air of ethereal sacredness permeates its foyer through the combined effect of its high ceiling, tapered cruciform columns, and elongated windows arranged in a staggered pattern between the louvers. The repeating openings in the lobby are each composed of a trio of daylighting shōji, which screen four sliding glass windows, are flanked by tall slit windows, and top a pair of small slit windows. The presence of the louvers outside these openings is not felt here, in contrast to the foyer, where the relationship between the openings and louvers is explicitly expressed. This building also features Le Corbusian trapezoidal prism windows with panes tinted in the four colors of red, blue, yellow, and green, adding flourishes of color. Currently, the facility is closed as it is undergoing seismic retrofitting work.