Gifu Prefectural Government Building

We created a lighting plan for the “Gifu, the Land of Clear Waters” display window, which makes extensive use of locally sourced materials, such as wood, traditional paper, tiles, and other materials, produced in Gifu Prefecture and was carefully designed to complement the architectural aesthetics. Through strategic placement of lighting fixtures and tailoring of the lighting to match the unique characteristics of each of the materials, we were able to bring out those characteristics to their fullest extent. In particular, for the mall on the lower levels, we have used lighting to evoke ripples on the water’s surface through slits in the suspended ceiling structure, creating the impression of shimmering water.

Custom-made semi-recessed lighting fixtures have been used to ensure a balance between the ease of integration into the space and a sense of brightness of the ceiling surface. Illuminance of at least 750 lx on desktops has been secured. Moreover, energy savings have also been realized through the use of fixtures compatible with lighting control.

Direct-attachment base lights have been installed at the top of the ceiling curtain so that their light illuminates the entire curtain. Illuminating the distinctive membrane ceiling imbues the whole space with a sense of brightness while at the same time enveloping it in soft light with the aim of creating an assembly chamber that is easy for people across various generations to use. Consideration has also been given to live broadcasting of parliamentary sessions with lighting positioned so that shadows from the base materials are not visible on the fixture’s surface light-emitting parts.

We have created user-friendly spaces by adjusting the lighting method according to the activities being carried out in the space. Spaces welcoming visitors from inside and outside Gifu Prefecture and from around Japan have been created making extensive use of wood, traditional washi paper, tiles, and other materials produced in Gifu Prefecture. Ceiling lights have been installed within the wood lattice ceiling features. The ceramic wall at the entrance is illuminated from above to accentuate the texture of the materials.

For spaces that are difficult to figure out with just horizontal illuminance distribution charts, simulations are utilized to check illuminance three-dimensionally from a user perspective. Based on simulation results and taking glare and brightness into consideration, we determined the positioning of lights from a user-centric viewpoint.

Administration building: Entrance/Atrium
Checking the amount of light reaching the atrium and the brightness of each floor

Administration building: Minamo Hall
Checking glare and brightness from both the stage and the audience perspectives

Assembly building: Assembly Chamber
The brightness of the membrane lighting that illuminates the space and the glare are also checked during live broadcasts

While embodying a level of formality appropriate for a prefectural government building symbolizing the “Gifu, the Land of Clear Waters” the design takes the surrounding residential area into account by incorporating soft lighting. The deeply carved floating exterior frame, made from locally produced cedar, serves as both an architectural element and a sunshade. The formwork regulates sunlight while allowing soft, diffused light to reach the interior. The lattice window design of the adjacent police headquarters has been replicated to create a sense of unity within the landscape. Illumination of the top of the building ensures that it remains a landmark within the surrounding area even at night. The Seiryu-lobby on the 20F Observation Floor is illuminated with awareness of the colors that correspond to international campaigns and national educational activities and conveying messages from Gifu Prefecture regarding these initiatives.

For the entrance façade, line lighting has been positioned to complement the wooden louvers under the eaves, neatly integrating the lighting in a compact manner.