all images © Brett Boardman

Australia House is a gallery, studio and atelier, designed by Andrew Burns Architects in the 'snow country' of Niigata Prefecture, approximately three hours north of Tokyo. The building replaces a previous structure which collapsed in a powerful aftershock on March 12, 2011. The Australian Embassy Tokyo, Tokamachi City Government and the Echigo-Tsumari Triennale resolved quickly to construct a new building and it stands as a symbol of healing and transformation in this beautiful area of Japan.

During winter, the site can experience 1.5m of snow during one day, and this was a key consideration in the design, with the roof pitching steeply. The building alternates between a familiar domestic presence and that of an art object. The interiors form a large 'perception device', heightening views of the surrounding landscape and creating opportunities for art installation.

The proposal received first place from a field of 154 entries in an international design competition chaired by Tadao Ando. Of the design, Ando commented:

'It is difficult to form a triangle. However, it could create interesting architecture since it is difficult. I find the approach to the house attractive and different elements well arranged. The idea of dealing with snow is thoughtful, considering that the site is located in a heavy snowfall region. It would be fantastic if only the triangular roof was visible as the rest of the house is covered with three-metre-high snow.'

The project has been supported by the Tokamachi City Government, the Australia-Japan Foundation, International Culture Appreciation and Interchange Society, Inc., the Australian Embassy Tokyo and local residents. The project received the 2013 Jorn Utzon Award for International Architecture.

Project Facts

Location: Japan

Collaborators: Souhei Imamura, Sotaro Yamamoto, Casey Bryant

> via andrewburns.net.au