Revitalizing the Miki Residence Atelier: A New Era of Cultural Heritage Conservation

On October 28, 2025, Keyman Co., Ltd. announced an extensive renovation plan for the Miki Residence Atelier, a nationally registered tangible cultural property located in Nakano, Tokyo. This initiative aims to not only preserve the historical value of the building but also to create a sustainable model of conservation and utilization that transcends generations.

Historical Background of the Miki Residence Atelier

The Miki Residence Atelier was built in October 1934 as a combined living and working space for the painter Kotaro Miki and his wife, Setsuko. Designed by architect Iwao Yamawaki, who studied at the Bauhaus in Germany, the atelier features a unique architectural style that blends international styles with Japanese wooden construction techniques. Following Kotaro Miki's untimely death in July 1934, Setsuko completed the structure, which is now considered a pioneering example of wooden modernism in Japan. The building, recognized for its valuable architectural significance, was registered as a tangible cultural property on October 7, 2014.

New Approaches to Cultural Heritage

The renovation of the Miki Residence Atelier represents a significant shift in how cultural assets are preserved. Rather than merely repairing the building, the plan focuses on enhancing its cultural and social value, ensuring it remains a vibrant part of the community. In revitalizing the structure, the project aims to reconcile the original design’s integrity with modern technologies and sensibilities, a concept referred to as “Shin Wooden Modernism.”

This innovative approach encourages the melding of historical preservation with contemporary architectural practices. While recreating the original design would usually involve meticulous restoration, the Miki Atelier lacks detailed historical documents. Thus, the renovation embraces a new ‘basic state’ that favors innovative reinterpretation over exact replication, emphasizing improvement while honoring the past.

The Corner Window: A Symbol of Transformation

The renowned corner window is a defining feature of the Miki Residence Atelier, showcasing the integration of light and space, a principal theme envisioned by its original creators. However, this design has led to significant structural challenges over the years. The upcoming renovations will reimagine the corner window to comply with modern fire safety and earthquake resistance standards while striving to retain the architectural spirit of the original structure. The proposed enhancements focus on transforming it into a new form embodying lightness and transparency.

The Legacy of the Reception Room

Adjacent to the atelier is a modern addition known as the Reception Room, which symbolizes the evolution of family life in the post-war era. In the renovation process, part of this room will need to be removed to restore the original corner window design. Instead of erasing this feature from existence, the project plans to relocate elements of the Reception Room to the adjacent Casa Bianca building, where visitors will still experience the rich history it represents. This decision reflects a contemporary preservation strategy designed to convey memories and historical narratives to future generations.

Launching the REDO Project

Keyman Co., Ltd. has specialized in earthquake reinforcement for over 30 years. With the introduction of the new REDO initiative in 2021, the company is committed to enhancing the usability of cultural heritage sites. This project aims to ensure the longevity of buildings by not only reinforcing their structures but also implementing thoughtful renovations to breathe new life into these cultural assets.

The Miki Residence Atelier and Casa Bianca will function together under the REDO Saginomiya Project, establishing a multifaceted cultural hub that supports events, exhibits, and workshops while ensuring experiences are rich and engaging for the community.

Looking Ahead

By continuing to preserve and activate culturally significant sites like the Miki Residence Atelier, this project represents a proactive approach to heritage conservation. As emphasized by Hasuo Katayama, the CEO of Keyman, the mission is to evolve these heritage sites into active cultural assets for future generations. The grand renovation plan aims to bridge the past, present, and future, ensuring that the Miki Residence Atelier thrives as a living testament to the values of artistic creation and community engagement.

The scheduled renovations are set to begin in March 2025, with public access to the revitalized Miki Residence Atelier expected in late autumn of 2026. This initiative stands as a striking example of how cultural conservation can adapt and flourish in contemporary society.

For further inquiries regarding the Miki Residence Atelier project, please contact the facilities management office at Keyman Co., Ltd. for more information.