RELATING TO MOUNTAIN & WATER

While about 41% of the national average land under forests is plantation, for Shikoku and Tokushima it is around 61% (Forestry Planning Division, 2007). Using local wood makes tree plantations on local mountains economically viable, paying for their thinning and maintenance, and prevents destruction of natural forests. Penetration of sunlight supports healthy undergrowth, which retains ground water and prevents landslides. Water in rivers flowing down healthy mountains carry more nutrients for aquatic life, improving fishery harvests. At the micro-level, local wood has naturally inbuilt resistance to the local climate, and if wisely used, will need less unhealthy chemical protection.

Members of local, naturally dried cedar wood which are 70yrs. or older, are joined by flexible, long lasting traditional methods of exposed framework, chosen as a means to carry into the future, highly developed aesthetics of classical wooden architecture. A bold formal structure, which heightens awareness of the surrounding landscape, enriches everyday life in the place.

Walls made with natural materials like clay and plaster over bamboo frames, along with the timber frame create a soft structural system that withstands seismic forces. They “breathe” and absorb excess moisture and keep the air clean, while making the enclosed living spaces comfortable. This traditional system is exposed, hence easy to maintain and consequently long lasting. These natural materials are low-energy materials. Skills and systems supporting such structures are fast dying out before sustainable alternatives for the future emerge.
Naturally dried local Japanese cedar offers a warm color and luster. Its natural aroma offers relaxation, promotes sleeps, rejuvenates body functions and enhances its immunity system. Its inherent protective components keep away ticks and termites. It is soft and offers good insulation. It regulates moisture content in air and absorbs high frequency sound waves, offering a congenial acoustical environment.
Treated in a highly effective septic tank by diverse organisms, wastewater or rainwater is reused in the toilet, enjoyed in the garden nurturing life, and is returned to Nature. That man is part of the vast natural cyclical process is expressed in a modern context as an enjoyable, tangible part of daily life.