Suntory Kita-Alps Shinano-no-Mori Water Plant

Nestled against the awe-inspiring Northern Alps, the Suntory Kita-Alps Shinano-no-Mori Water Plant, a masterpiece by SEMBA Corporation, is a testament to the seamless fusion of sustainable innovation and natural harmony. This experiential facility is not just a production site but a journey that immerses visitors in the essence of water, offering a unique experience that resonates with the surrounding forest. With zero CO2 emissions, the facility embodies the principles of sustainable water production while narrating the crucial story of nature's most precious resource.

The design of the plant is not just about functionality. It's a celebration of the inherent beauty of the region and the profound connection between water, mountains, and life. Every element of the facility is meticulously crafted to underscore the significance of water, inviting visitors to forge a meaningful bond with the landscape. The design concept, 'A Story Leading into the Future,' is a journey that aims to foster an appreciation for water's role in life and to inspire a vision of living in harmony with nature.

Visitors will feel seamlessly integrated into the forest environment, whether they are indoors or outdoors. The interior spaces include mountain ridge motifs, benches inspired by water droplets, and detailed mountain dioramas, creating a solid connection with nature. Outdoor terraces provide expansive views that capture the tranquillity and grandeur of the natural world.

The journey commences with an introductory tunnel. Inside the forest-located exhibition buildings, interactive displays educate visitors about forest creation and water production processes. Touch exhibits made from materials used in the factory provide a tangible connection to natural textures, while a recycling post for PET bottles reinforces the facility's unwavering commitment to sustainability. The shades of blue, inspired by the natural colours of water, create a transition from the everyday to the extraordinary, assuring visitors of the facility's dedication to environmental preservation.

One of the highlights of the experience is the visual narrative that follows water's 20-year journey from its origin in the ocean to its eventual emergence at the factory. High-resolution 6K live-action footage vividly captures the intricate process of water's journey through the earth and mountains, allowing visitors to experience a raindrop's perspective and deepen their understanding of water's natural cycle.

The project's planning phase prioritized environmental preservation. The team carefully evaluated the existing topography and vegetation to ensure the facility and visitor routes respected and preserved the landscape. Boulders found during construction were repurposed as landscape features and local granite was used to make benches in a plaza with panoramic views of Mount Gakidake. Using locally sourced Akamatsu timber for building materials and furnishings reflects a strong commitment to sustainability. To address concerns about the aging Akamatsu forests, the team collected and replanted seedlings from the site and introduced region-specific species to promote forest regeneration, showcasing the facility's dedication to environmental sustainability.

The Suntory Kita-Alps Shinano-no-Mori Water Plant has been meticulously designed with a sustainable approach to achieve its goal: creating a place where the manufacturers' aspirations for future generations to enjoy the same pure, natural water are realized. Visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for water and a renewed sense of joy in living harmoniously with nature, contributing to a cycle of empathy and sustainability that resonates throughout the region.

For more information, please visit: https://www.semba1008.co.jp/en

*This project is one of the shortlisted project in the Sky Design Awards 2024 - Interior Design - Institution Division