Transforming disused schools into facilities such as cultural centers, research spaces or community hubs preserves their importance, attracts new residents and revitalizes local economies in ageing and depopulated areas. This is increasingly important in Japan, where birthrates are declining alongside an ageing demographic and approximately 450 school buildings become disused yearly due to shrinking student enrollment. Japanese school buildings are more than educational spaces; they serve as hubs for community life. They host events, festivals and playgrounds and have a vital role during natural disasters, functioning as evacuation centers and distribution points for emergency supplies. Given their capacity to accommodate hundreds of students, repurposing these buildings offers organizations a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to building new facilities. Transforming these spaces can help preserve their significance and revitalize local communities.

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