Modern building with angular roofs and glass windows, featuring wooden elements and an open area.

A modern architectural building with angular, overlapping roof structures and large glass windows. The design features exposed wooden elements and a spacious open area in front. The sky is clear and blue.

A modern architectural structure with multiple angular, overlapping roof sections supported by tall columns. The building features large glass windows and a canopy-covered area. The design includes a mix of wood and metal elements, set against a clear blue sky.
A modern multi-level building with overlapping horizontal slabs and open spaces, featuring a light and airy design with railings and columns.
A modern multi-level building with a series of horizontal layers and glass facades, featuring open spaces and railings. The structure is surrounded by landscaped areas with grass and pathways.
A modern architectural structure featuring multiple levels with flat, overhanging roofs and a combination of glass and wooden elements. The design includes open spaces and visible support beams, creating a layered and airy appearance.
A modern multi-level building with green rooftop terraces and an open-air performance space, surrounded by a crowd of people.
A multi-level structure with grassy terraces and people walking along pathways. The building features several layers with railings and open spaces, and there are visible plants growing on the terraces.
A modern architectural structure with a wooden lattice facade and glass elements, reflected in a body of water.
A modern, multi-level building with illuminated walkways and terraces, set against a night sky.
A modern building with multiple levels and large glass windows, reflecting in a body of water in front of it. The structure features a series of horizontal lines and open spaces, with a clear blue sky above.
A modern architectural structure with wooden ceilings and white metal railings, featuring multiple levels and staircases. The area is well-lit, with a mix of natural and artificial lighting.
Interior view of a modern event space with hanging fabric strips and rows of white chairs facing a stage.
Interior view of a large event space with hanging vertical strips in various shades of yellow and white, creating a dynamic ceiling design. The space includes seating arranged in rows and a visible stage area. Lighting fixtures and structural elements are also visible.
An interior view of a modern event space featuring hanging fabric strips from the ceiling, a stage, and rows of white chairs arranged in front of the stage.
A large crowd gathers in an indoor venue with a high ceiling adorned with hanging fabric decorations. A stage is visible in the background with performers and a large screen displaying visuals.
Architectural elevation drawing of a building with multiple overlapping horizontal elements and a complex structure.
A detailed architectural floor plan of the EXPO National Day Hall ‘Ray Garden’ in Osaka, showing various sections labeled with numbers. The plan includes areas such as the National Day Hall Seat, National Day Hall Stage, Gallery East, Pop-up Stage South, Foyer, Loading Yard, and Event Back Yard. The layout is marked with pathways, seating arrangements, and structural outlines.
Architectural floor plan of the 2nd floor showing various labeled areas including lounge, dining, counter area, guest restrooms, kitchen, terrace, preparation room, ceiling spot, upper stage, reception, and stage backyard.
Architectural section drawing of a building with multiple horizontal layers and structural elements.
Architectural section drawing of the EXPO National Day Hall 'Ray Garden' in Osaka, showing labeled areas such as the stage, foyer, restrooms, exhibition room warehouse, galleries, pop-up stage, and lounge.
Architectural section drawing of a building with labeled areas including stage, audience seating, adjustment room, backstage, and event management supervisory center.
Technical drawing of a stripe detail featuring handrails, planting zones, and structural components.

Story

A symbiotic architectural expression for Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai The Ray Garden, designed by Akihisa Hirata, is a forthcoming architectural marvel for the Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai. This complex of small event spaces includes a theater for ceremonies, an exhibition area for traditional crafts, and a restaurant/lounge, all harmoniously integrated into the landscape. The design concept draws inspiration from the natural elements—sky, wind, water, and earth—creating an architectural form that resembles fluttering clouds and grassy vegetation. Strategically positioned to stretch out towards the sea, the structure evokes the historical memory of Osaka as an ancient gateway for international exchange. The building's orientation aligns with the diagonal topographical features of the Kansai region, resonating with the prevailing winds that flow through the Yodo River system. The rooftop, adorned with bushy grasses native to the riverbanks, dances in the sea breeze, reinforcing the connection between architecture and nature.

## Design Highlights

The building's exterior mimics natural forms, resembling clouds and vegetation. An open-air expanse of slab strips intermingles with the event spaces. The orientation aligns with regional topographical and wind patterns. Rooftop vegetation reflects local flora, enhancing the natural aesthetic. The design symbolizes Osaka's historical role in international exchange.

## Key Facts

Feature Detail
Location Osaka, Japan
Design Period Nov 2021 – Oct 2023
Construction Period Dec 2023 – Mar 2025
Architect Akihisa Hirata Architecture Office
Structural Design ARUP, KONOIKE CONSTRUCTION CO., LTD.
Exterior Design Landscape Plus

Technical Summary

Finishes

  • Exterior: The exterior features angular, overlapping roof structures with exposed wooden elements and large glass windows.
  • Interior: The interior includes hanging fabric strips and rows of white chairs facing a stage, creating a dynamic and elegant atmosphere.

Materials

  • Wood — Used in the facade and interior elements such as ceilings and support beams.
  • Glass — Used extensively in windows and facades to create open and airy spaces.
  • Metal — Used in structural elements such as columns and railings.

Construction / Systems

  • Structural System: The building features multiple overlapping horizontal layers supported by columns, integrating with the landscape.

Products

  • Not specified

Palette / Lighting

  • Colors: natural wood tones, clear glass, white
  • Lighting: A mix of natural and artificial lighting, creating a modern and inviting atmosphere.

Project information and images courtesy of Akihisa Hirata Architecture Office. Originally published by afasiaarchzine.com.

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