Day 5 features Mitsuhiro Nomura, Japan Cultural Heritage Consultancy, a chief conservator for the preservation and repair of Cultural Property Buildings certified by the Agency for Cultural Affairs.
When restoring a building designated as a National Important Cultural Property like Nara Prison, the primary requirement is to maintain its current state. As a specialist in repairing cultural property buildings, I collaborated with Yasui Architects and Engineers to supervise the seismic retrofitting of the brick structures using modern construction methods. I also acted as a consultant of sorts, coordinating between the requests of the operator, Hoshino Resorts, and the views of the Agency for Cultural Affairs. I particularly struggled with the coordination regarding the new wall openings in the North Visitation Room where the museum is located. It is not a job that stands out publicly, but if visitors to the Nara Prison Museum feel that it is a magnificent and beautiful building, I am personally satisfied.
Japan Cultural Heritage Consultancy is a design firm specializing in cultural assets. In addition to the design, supervision, and seismic reinforcement involved in the preservation and repair of Important Cultural Properties, the firm provides comprehensive consulting to pass these treasures on to the next generation.
In the restoration of Nara Prison, Mitsuhiro Nomura served not only as a supervisor but also as a coordinator between the operator, the Agency for Cultural Affairs, and the contractors.
Follow the series on Instagram: “The Exquisite Prison and the 30”
