The Potential of Small Wooden-Frame Building in Aging Japan

Wooden-frame structures, with the capacity for continuous renewal, are key resources urban regeneration and so comprise one of most sustainable construction methods. This was true in past Japan, but following World War II, wooden-frame structures were demolished replaced at a rapid pace. However, today, Japan’s aging dwindling population, growing number abandoned houses has become socio-economic issue. In response to this crisis, local initiatives have been established address problem. Some novel design management practices arisen restore value excess wooden-framed buildings. The purpose paper is discuss current renovation vacant buildings as well evaluate these light future, by approaching issue from perspective architects designers investigating their roles processes. starts evolution building type present. Data in-depth interviews specialists who involved postwar timber dwellings gathered discussed. emphasis here on expertise successful cases space management, incorporation those into community. Our case studies located different contexts; regional city, peripheral area Tokyo, central Tokyo. findings highlight crucial role mediate between benefits drawbacks rehabilitation efforts, which nevertheless still outnumbered houses. Nonetheless, experiences valuable long-term viability Japan.