More recent projects like Comploo, a teahouse heated by compost, reflect the firm痴 fresh approach to environmental design. Composting can reach temperatures of 50C (120F) . BAKOKO designed a structure to exploit this free energy from what is commonly regarded as waste. As microorganisms decompose organic matter within its walls, heat is transferred to warm the interior. The shelter provides a steady supply of rich organic fertilizer for growing new plants. The team thinks that the idea will not only be useful in parks and gardens throughout Japan, but can also be adapted by NGOs to serve as self-heating homes in developing nations.
The architects have already completed a number of renovation projects. Their first project in Japan transformed a typical 'mansion' apartment on the outskirts of Tokyo. Internal partitions were removed to maximize light penetration and provide an open-plan living arrangement. Sliding doors run along one side of the space, opening to reveal a walk-in closet, bookshelves, and working desk. The connection between the kitchen and main living space is kept unobstructed by suspending the cabinetry above the dining counter. Lush vegetation and recessed lighting accent the interior and provide character.
BAKOKO believes these types of home renovations are becoming an important trend in Japan. The country's rapidly ageing population means that there are more houses than households. “Continuing to scrap old buildings and build new ones is no longer sustainable,” says Alastair Townsend who blogs his observations about housing in Japan at alatown.com . “Renovating offers better value as existing homes in ideal urban locations can be adapted for much less than the cost of constructing a new suburban home.” Renovation is also an opportunity to improve insulation, replace glazing, and make other energy-saving modifications.
BAKOKO believes the biggest challenge clients and architects face is learning to speak a common language. This not only entails bridging the Anglo-Japanese divide linguistically, but also in thought and approach. “Our international viewpoint imparts novel insights and flexibility when sitting down to think with our clients about the core questions they face,” explains Kayoko Ohtsuki, who spent half her life living overseas. “We work to make sure our ideas don't get lost in translation.”
More of BAKOKO's projects and background can be viewed online at www.bakoko.jp
