“The Osaka Machinami Awards?” someone asks. It is more than just recognizing buildings. The Osaka Toshi Keikan Kenchiku Sho, also known as the Osaka Machinami Awards, aims to celebrate and encourage the creation of beautiful urban landscapes. It focuses on structures and streetscapes that enhance the overall environment.
The awards, initiated in 1981, have become a notable recognition. They are a distinguished accolade in Osaka. Every year, citizens nominate buildings and urban areas. A jury then selects the most outstanding examples.
The Osaka Toshi Keikan Kenchiku Sho highlights excellence in urban design. It promotes structures that contribute positively to the city’s aesthetic appeal. These awards encourage organizations to construct and maintain impressive cityscapes.
Let’s talk about OMO7 Osaka by Hoshino Resorts. It received two awards at the 42nd Osaka Machinami Awards. These were the Excellent Greening Award and the Architectural Signage and Art Award. The awards were presented on January 24, 2024.
The Excellent Greening Award recognized OMO7 Osaka’s “Miya-green” project. This green space transformed the view from JR Shin-Imamiya Station. The 7,600 square meters of greenery is accessible to hotel guests. It provides a rare sight in the densely populated urban area. It significantly contributes to the local scenery. The green space includes park elements. There are inclined pathways and wood decks. A central grass square and roofed multi-functional spaces also feature. These showcase the layered allure of urban green spaces.
The Architectural Signage and Art Award recognized OMO7 Osaka’s 3D letter signage. It is strategically placed in the corner. It serves as a backdrop for Miya-green. This placement offers a visually appealing angle for photos. At night, the building’s exterior transforms into a media facade. It entertains with computer-controlled LED light shows. This integration of elements is expected to turn OMO7 into a new tourist attraction.
The “PIKAPIKA NIGHT” light shows occur year-round. They take place from 7:30 PM to 10:00 PM daily in the Miya-green garden area. These shows are available to hotel guests. The display contents are subject to change based on weather.
Miya-green includes approximately 1,700 square meters of grass and around 200 plantings. It also features a terrace deck with a pergola. This results in a cooling effect. The reasons for this cooling effect include the suppression of surface heating. Shading is provided by trees and pergolas. The watering of plantings also contributes. Simulations showed that perceived temperature under trees and pergolas is approximately 5°C lower. This is compared to asphalt surfaces. In the grassy fields, the apparent temperature was about 1°C lower.
Hoshino Resorts believes in Creating Shared Value. They view SDGs as an impetus for advancing CSV management. Hoshino Resorts actively promotes environmentally conscious initiatives. They believe eco-friendly technologies in hotel construction contribute to Goal 7 of the SDGs. This ensures access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all.
OMO is a city tourism hotel brand. It is perfect for exploring deep urban culture. OMO considers the city around the hotel as part of the resort. They offer a variety of options to see, eat, and shop. With the cooperation of the local community, city-lovers can gain insight into culture. This is through original tours and maps. These share locals’ favorites and hidden gems.
So, the next time you see the Osaka Machinami Awards, remember its significance. The Osaka Toshi Keikan Kenchiku Sho recognizes places like OMO7 Osaka. They enhance our urban environment. They are committed to beautiful, distinctive, and impressive cityscapes.