#Japan #Kamaishi #NEMARU PORT #Nikkei Award

NEMARU PORT Achieves Prestigious Recognition

In a notable achievement for contemporary workspace design, NEMARU PORT, situated in Kamaishi City, Iwate Prefecture, has recently been honored with the “Third Workplace Promotion Award” at the 39th Nikkei New Office Awards. This award, initiated by the Nihon Keizai Shimbun and the New Office Promotion Association (NOPA), recognizes innovative business environments and aims to promote the concept of New office spaces. The Third Workplace category was introduced last year in recognition of the growing popularity of co-working and shared office spaces.

NEMARU PORT, which operates as a hub for various training programs throughout Kamaishi, features natural lighting and an air circulation system powered by a wood stove, promoting environmental consciousness. This initiative is part of the city's broader Open City strategy, designed to foster a unique learning environment and support diverse work styles.

The Core Features of NEMARU PORT

NEMARU PORT is structurally defined by its “the circle of Ne-Maru” concept, facilitating a universal design that seamlessly connects the first and second floors via a gentle slope. This layout encourages organic interactions among users, maximizing the learning experiences during workshops and activities. The facility is meticulously crafted to foster long-term environmental awareness through experiential learning and daily practices.

A Hub for Experience, Interaction, and Learning

This facility is strategically located within Kamaishi’s city center, offering convenient access to the mountains, sea, and cultural attractions. NEMARU PORT serves as a connection point for participants, linking them to local eateries and cultural spots, enhancing their overall experience. The design features a communal patio that encourages unexpected encounters and interactions, while also providing ample space for group work, individual tasks, relaxation, and outdoor workshops. This diverse spatial arrangement nurtures collaboration and knowledge sharing among participants.

Environmentally-Conscious Design

NEMARU PORT is not just a learning hub but is also designed with sustainability in mind. Each user can personalize their comfort through adjustable lighting and temperature settings, promoting an understanding of environmental actions. This tailored experience encourages users to take small, mindful actions home with them, gradually transforming their daily behaviors toward sustainability.

Celebrating Local Culture and Resources

The design of NEMARU PORT embraces the essence of Kamaishi, utilizing local materials such as locally sourced wood, metal products, and eco-materials drawn from scallop and abalone shells. This integration of local culture and resources fosters a sense of place, as visitors can keenly feel the connection to Kamaishi's natural landscape and industrial heritage.

Timeline and Development of NEMARU PORT

The journey of NEMARU PORT began with a comprehensive collaboration agreement signed on March 26, 2021, between Kamaishi City, Kamaishi DMC, and Nippon Steel Kowa Real Estate to explore and promote new work styles through regional revitalization initiatives. With the addition of Okamura Corporation in October 2021, the collaboration expanded, leading to the opening of NEMARU PORT, which caters primarily to remote workers from the Tokyo metropolitan area offering unique local experiences.

Facility Overview

• - Name: NEMARU PORT
• - Location: 2-5-15 Hamamachi, Kamaishi City, Iwate Prefecture
• - Area: 402.09㎡
• - Structure: Workspaces, private rooms, training rooms, refreshment areas, kitchen, management offices
• - Operating Hours: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM
• - Website: NEMARU PORT Official Site
• - Access: 5 minutes by car from JR Kamaishi Station

As NEMARU PORT continues to innovate and invite people from various backgrounds, it promises not only to enrich the community but also contribute significantly to addressing local challenges through collaborative efforts and sustainable practices.