Bunshodo to Explore New Uses for the Historic Tsuchiya Residence in Manazuru

Bunshodo to Assess the Future of the Tsuchiya Residence in Manazuru

In a significant development for the historic Tsuchiya Residence in Manazuru, Kanagawa Prefecture, Bunshodo Co., Ltd. has been selected as the preferred negotiation partner to explore potential uses for this culturally important site. Originally serving as both a family home and a business location, the Tsuchiya Residence has roots tied to a prominent figure in local history, Daiichiro Tsuchiya, who was a stone merchant and later became a member of the House of Representatives. Built in 1892 during the Meiji period, the residence has been preserved through various renovations, including extensive repairs following the Great Kanto Earthquake.

Opened as the Manazuru Folk Museum in 1986 after receiving a free lease from the town, the building has served as a repository of local history, showcasing the town’s rich heritage in the stone industry and fishing. However, due to aging and financial burdens for maintenance, the museum is set to close in September 2024. In light of this, the town is now considering various avenues for the building's future under a partnership between public and private sectors.

Recently, the three main structures of the Tsuchiya residence, comprising the main building, the study, and the internal storage area, received a recommendation from Japan's Cultural Council to be registered as tangible cultural assets, pending official announcement by the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology. If approved, this would mark the first time a cultural property in Manazuru carries this esteemed designation.

Bunshodo has a rich history of creating diverse spaces, having collaborated on various projects, including public facilities and offices. Notably, in 2022, they renovated the former Kataura Branch Office in Odawara City, turning it into the multi-purpose Workcation House U. This innovative space caters to both corporate and individual users, facilitating remote work and collaborations with local businesses through sustainable operational practices.

As they turn their focus to the Tsuchiya Residence, Bunshodo is committed not only to preserving the building but also to ensuring it remains functional and relevant for future generations. Currently, discussions are underway with local authorities, architectural experts, and community stakeholders to evaluate the building’s condition, legal considerations, and preservation guidelines. The decisions regarding its potential uses, business model, renovation plans, and opening timeline will be carefully made based on these critical discussions.

With its extensive experience in spatial design, coupled with insights gained from managing Workcation House U, Bunshodo aims to discover the best possible utilization of the Tsuchiya Residence, contributing to both the building's legacy and the community of Manazuru.

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