five interconnected timber volumes under large gable shape off-grid house on japanese island

"Located in the center of Amami Island, , Off-Grid House by Sakai Architects is a self-sufficient family designed to operate entirely independent of the national power grid. The project explores architecture as a model for circular living in response to environmental change and regional depopulation, integrating spatial, climatic, and social systems within a subtropical island context. The design originates from a research process into local vernacular building methods and contemporary strategies for self-reliance."

"Rooted in the island's buntō (multi-volume) layout tradition, the plan consists of five interconnected structures, each dedicated to a specific function, such as bathing, sleeping, and storage. These volumes are arranged geometrically to create intermediary outdoor and semi-enclosed zones that serve as shared living and gathering areas. The resulting spatial configuration allows continuous airflow and natural ventilation while establishing fluid transitions between interior and exterior environments."

"The roof design draws from Amami's vernacular irimoya (hip-and-gable) and corrugated-metal forms, reinterpreted with layered insulation and ventilation cavities for climatic adaptability. Deep eaves mitigate direct solar exposure and tropical rainfall, while the raised structure references takakura granaries, enabling cross-ventilation and resilience to humidity. all images by Toshihisa Ishii OFF-GRID HOME models ecological autonomy and collective living Locally sourced and recycled materials are employed throughout. A wood-fired sauna utilizes offcuts"

The Off-Grid House on Amami Island is designed to operate entirely independent of the national power grid, using photovoltaic generation, composting systems, and wood fuel from construction offcuts. The project emerged from research into local vernacular methods and feasibility studies of renewable options, with solar selected despite limited regional irradiation. The plan comprises five interconnected volumes arranged to create intermediary outdoor and semi-enclosed communal spaces that enable continuous airflow and natural ventilation. The roof adapts irimoya and corrugated-metal traditions with layered insulation and ventilation cavities, deep eaves, and a raised structure for humidity resilience. Locally sourced and recycled materials support ecological autonomy and collective living.

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