SEPT 2024
Visiting The Site
On September 21, a site tour was held for the fifth phase of “Passive Town,” an eco-friendly residential project being developed by YKK in the city of Kurobe.
“Passive Town” is an initiative by the YKK Group, based in Kurobe, focused on harnessing renewable energy to foster sustainable urban development.
The first four phases have already seen the implementation of numerous sustainable features. In the fifth phase, a multi-storey residential building designed with a focus on energy storage is currently under construction. This will be the first multi-storey wooden structure in the Hokuriku region, with 87% of the building materials sourced from the prefecture. A pioneering system will also be introduced to these homes: excess solar energy will be used to produce hydrogen, which will then be stored for later use as a renewable energy source.
On September 20, Austrian architect Hermann Kaufmann, the project’s designer, visited the site and discussed the challenges faced in the process, such as using concrete to improve the building’s earthquake resistance.
The completion of the fifth phase is set for March of next year.
In Japan, massive foundations are required due to earthquakes
Insight into the exciting YKK project in Japan – Interview with the project team
Ground breaking ceremony
“Mr. Yoshida became aware of us through one of my lectures in Japan, and now we have the pleasure of implementing this project for a globally leading manufacturer. It is a valuable experience for us to get to know people and their cultures through international projects, which is very enriching for us.”
HERMANN KAUFMANN
