Archbishop Hall, Catholic Osaka Archdiocese

A multi-purpose facility combining the head office of the Catholic Archdiocese of Osaka and the homes of the archbishop and other priests. It was planned as the core facility to further advance the diverse activities of the Archdiocese. On the first floor are a hall that can be used in continuity with the outside, and social and PR functions, manifesting the open aspect of the Archdiocese. The office and residential spaces are clearly zoned onto different floors, in an arrangement that ensures security. The structure is reinforced concrete on all levels, and the plan does not use seismic resistance slits, other than on some non-earthquake-resistant walls. Care for the environment combines with reduction of maintenance management work, with the use of passive methods such low-E glass, LED lighting, and green curtains.