Yakushima Island is a natural paradise in southern Japan. This innovative housing project applies “regenerative architecture” to reconceptualize the relationship between human habitation and nature. The name Sumu means both “to live” and “to become clear,” expressing its core concept of living in a way that positively impacts the landscape. Instead of being a discrete site, the design takes a holistic view of the entire river basin, from the mountains to the sea, making a positive contribution to natural processes.
It applies “regenerative architecture,” a new approach developed that combines traditional Japanese civil engineering with contemporary technology. By designing the underground environment and engaging the buildings in a constructed mycelial network, it promotes biodiversity in the soil. Sumu’s design changes our relationship with nature, and its unique approach has the potential to accelerate environmental initiatives if more widely applied.
Credits
Architecture
Tsukasa Ono
Client
Sumu Yakushima
Year of completion
2023
Location
Yakushima, Japan
Total area
162 m2
Site area
2.548 m2
Photos
Nishi Rui
Project Partners
Moss Guide Club
