At the intersection of science and architecture lies the Yunosato Aquaphotomics Laboratory, a collaborative venture by Clouds Architecture Office and Atelier Tecnoform Co., Ltd. This cutting-edge facility delves into the intricate relationship between water and light, exploring their interplay as sources of holistic information for biological and aqueous systems.
Bridging Science and Design
Situated against the picturesque backdrop of Mount Koya, a renowned UNESCO World Heritage site, the Yunosato Laboratory seamlessly blends scientific inquiry with architectural innovation. The transition from conventional rectilinear forms to fluid, lofty curves symbolizes a journey of exploration, opening up to panoramic vistas of the surrounding natural landscape.
Harnessing Nature’s Essence
Central to the laboratory’s research is the extraction of mineral-rich spring water that flows beneath the site. A striking feature of the gallery is its triangular glass floor, echoing the subterranean spring and imbuing the space with a sense of weightlessness. Beneath this translucent surface, textured mirrors refract light, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for a suspended model of a water molecule—a visual testament to the beauty of scientific inquiry.
Illuminating Spaces with Light
In the conference room, a captivating interplay of light and glass takes center stage. A large-scale art glass wall reflects light, casting dynamic reflections that dance across the space. Complementing this spectacle is a custom-designed conference table, its undulating steel frame echoing the fluidity of water, while an oak floor seamlessly connects the interior with the terrace, blurring the boundaries between inside and out.
Symbolism in Design
A curvilinear void, sculpted using spherical geometry, serves as a symbolic bridge between the gallery and conference room. Evoking the phases of the moon, this ethereal space symbolizes the cyclical nature of life and the cosmic essence of water—a concept deeply rooted in Japanese cosmology. By seamlessly integrating spatial experiences with symbolic meaning, the Yunosato Laboratory transcends its role as a mere research facility, becoming a beacon of scientific inquiry and architectural excellence.
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