Sumu Yakushima – Regenerative Life Studio

Sumu is an innovative housing co-op that applies “regenerative architecture” to reconceptualise the relationship between human habitation and Yakushima Island. The name Sumu means both ”to live” and ”to become clear,” expressing its core concept of living in a way that positively impacts the landscape. Inbuilt with off-grid energy sources, the underground environment and architecture are based on an in-depth understanding of water and air flows through the landscape, combining traditional Japanese civil engineering with contemporary technology.