Sendai unveils interim basic design for the new International Center North District Complex — Construction cost rises to ¥548 billion
The City of Sendai has released the interim version of the basic design for the planned International Center Station North District Complex in Aobayama, Aoba Ward. The estimated construction cost has increased from ¥350 billion (as stated in June 2023) to ¥548 billion, reflecting rising construction prices. The project aims to start construction in FY2027 and open in FY2031.
Key details:
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Designer: Sou Fujimoto Architects
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Site area: approx. 18,700 m²
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Building: RC + steel structure, 2 basement floors + 4 aboveground floors
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Total floor area: approx. 27,400 m²
Main facilities:
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A 2,000-seat main concert hall
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A 350-seat small hall
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A memorial facility for the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake
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Community workshop spaces
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Permanent disaster-prevention exhibitions (2F)
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Disaster-related knowledge exhibition zone (3F)
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Open free space (4F)
Design concept – “Many / One Resonance”:
A space where different people and activities meet and resonate, creating a foundation for new cultural expressions. The exterior uses multi-directional folded roof surfaces to reduce the sense of scale, while deep eaves provide shading and a seamless indoor–outdoor connection.
Next steps:
Sendai City will hold opinion-exchange meetings with musicians, cultural groups, and community organizations from late November. Feedback will be incorporated before finalizing the basic design within the fiscal year.
