Florian Busch Architects have designed a modular house in Hokkaido, Japan, with the objective of generating more energy than it consumes. The project aims to demonstrate the potential of advanced material use and energy-efficient design in reducing environmental impact.

Material Choices
The construction of the house incorporates renewable and recyclable materials. Locally sourced timber is used for both the structure and cladding, reducing transportation-related emissions. The untreated wooden exterior is designed to weather naturally, which minimises maintenance and extends material lifespan. Interior elements include exposed wooden beams and panels, as well as sustainably harvested hardwood flooring, contributing to indoor air quality and material durability.

Energy Efficiency and Environmental Performance
The house is oriented to maximise solar gain, with large windows that provide natural light and reduce the need for artificial lighting. The building is insulated to maintain thermal efficiency, reducing heating requirements during Hokkaido’s cold winters. The roof is designed with a steep pitch to prevent snow accumulation, which reduces structural stress and maintenance needs.

Solar panels integrated into the roof generate renewable energy, allowing the house to produce more electricity than it consumes. The surplus energy can be supplied to the local power grid. This system is intended to support energy self-sufficiency and contribute to the wider adoption of renewable energy sources.

Modular Construction and Circular Design
The house is constructed using a modular system, with components prefabricated off-site to reduce construction waste and minimise environmental disruption. The modular design allows for flexibility, enabling the structure to be expanded, reconfigured, or disassembled. This approach supports circular design principles by facilitating the reuse and recycling of materials at the end of the building’s lifecycle.

Integration with the Landscape
The design minimises site disturbance by using a foundation that elevates the structure above the ground, protecting it from snow accumulation. Natural materials and earthy tones allow the building to blend with its surroundings. Large windows frame views of the surrounding mountains, enhancing visual connectivity with the landscape.

The house is an example of how architects, interior designers, and landscape architects can apply sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems in building design. By integrating renewable resources, energy generation, and modular construction, the project aligns with principles of circular design and energy self-sufficiency.

Source: Florian Busch Architects, Designboom
Photos: Florian Busch Architects