Okinawa Development Finance Corporation Yaeyama Branch

This facility was designed following a proposal competition with expectations for a facility that:
1. leverages the climate and natural features of Yaeyama
2. garners trust and feels familiar to the local community
3. fully considers the functionality and safety of a policy-based financial institution
4. considers reducing environmental impact and lifecycle costs

The site is located in the center of Ishigaki City, close to administrative institutions such as Ishigaki City Hall and Taketomi Town Hall, cultural facilities like Ishigaki Civic Hall and the library, and Shinkyo Park, a popular spot for locals to relax. Given its importance as a hub for local residents as well as those from outlying islands, the building is a single-story, divided structure with a red-tiled sloped roof to harmonize with the surrounding landscape. The grounds are actively greened to form a contiguous green space with the adjacent pocket park and Shinkyo Park. Additionally, the office and conference zones are clearly separated around a central courtyard (minaka), a traditional architectural element of Yaeyama, providing a tranquil environment. An amahagi-style covered walkway is incorporated into the entrance approach to create a Yaeyama branch facility that is both community-rooted and approachable as a government financial institution.