Studio Nendo’s first public space is made up of giant concrete discs

CoFuFun is located in Tenri in Nara, Japan

By Lauren Ro@blauring Jun 9, 2017, 5:33pm EDT

Aerial shot of public space made of up large concrete discs with concentric stairs of varying heights set among a site with circular patches of turf in an urban setting. — The concrete structures were prefabricated offsite and then assembled on the grounds.

A sculptural new public space made up of flying saucer-like structures has opened in Tenri, a small town in Nara, Japan. Designed by prolific Tokyo-based Studio Nendo, CoFuFun, as it’s called, is a 6,000-square-meter (approximately 65,000 square feet) plaza meant to bring together residents and tourists alike.

The discs, inspired by ancient Japanese tombs known as “kofun,” and a number of which are found throughout Tenri, occupy several functions. Concentric stairs lead up or down and also act as benches, or as seating for an amphitheater, as a playground for children, or a roof.

Located by a train station, the circular concrete architecture—prefabricated offsite using molds—also comprises a cafe, meeting space, and a study lounge. The circle motif continues on the ground as well, where patches of turf of varying sizes offer a bit of green space in the middle of the city.

Placed at four different heights to minimize noise, the structures create a dynamic public space that is also playful. Have a look.