Faced with the threat of climate change, Japanese architect Takayoshi Ushijima decided to venture into the unknown by designing "U-House" in Maibara City, Shiga Prefecture, with flood prevention as the starting point. This building showcases his expertise in disaster prevention and response, constructed with a blend of wood and concrete to address the local risk of flooding. "U-House" is located in an area that was once part of Lake Biwa. After post-war land reclamation and changes in industrial structure, it has evolved into the residential area it is today. Taking into account the potential future rise in sea levels and the resulting flood risks, Ushijima ingeniously designed this two-story home with flood prevention as the core concept.
The design of the first floor is inspired by traditional elevated architecture, featuring a concrete foundation that creates a difference in height between the house and the ground. This results in a recessed indoor space, with an elevated perimeter that forms a spacious under-eave corridor. Large movable glass windows create an interplay of concrete surfaces and wooden structures on the first floor, maximizing transparency to create an indoor courtyard filled with greenery, serving as a refreshing element in daily life. Wooden stairs lead along the sloping roof to the wooden living spaces on the second floor, which include the kitchen, dining area, living room, bedroom, and bathroom.
The architect has cleverly concentrated all living functions here to mitigate inconvenience in the event of flooding on the first floor. The interior palette transitions from the dark tones of the exterior to lighter shades, with the flooring echoing this shift. The soft furnishings, primarily wood with metal accents, create a sleek yet cozy home atmosphere.
While wooden structures are often thought to be unsuitable for Taiwan's climate and usage habits, construction techniques and methods for wooden buildings in Europe, America, and Japan have been advancing for years. Most potential issues have corresponding solutions. The construction process of wooden buildings also emphasizes environmental protection and sustainability. Green building materials and eco-friendly paints are used to reduce the environmental impact during construction and ensure a healthy living environment, contributing to environmental sustainability.
