Bridge of Nations Museum Futenma Air Base, Okinawa

Recently there have been a lot of news stories and controversy about the relocation of this base. You can see a few articles about it over at the Yibisu Post, or check out a few other recent stories here:
Reuters: Japan PM faces island rebuff over U.S. base move
BBC: Okinawa Voices: 'No More Bases'
BBC: No easy answers in Okinawa base debate
Or, you can watch U.S Congressman Hank Johnson (D-GA) talk about how Guam will capsize if the base is relocated there. Hilarious.

This project is from the design phase of my architectural graduate thesis way back in 2005. The written thesis focused on site-specific architecture, multiple symbolism, and incorporating elements of local cultural elements to influence the architectural design. My project was to redesign Futenma Air Base, which is located in Ginowan, Okinawa and figure out the best use of this space when it is eventually returned to Okinawa. Some of the key concepts in the design included preserving the perimeter of the base, reconnect the divided city of Ginowan, and designing a large museum and cultural center along the existing runway. Please click on the images below for more detailed views and descriptions.