In the heart of Hokkaido, Japan, Florian Busch Architects has reimagined the traditional barn into an ultra-efficient family home. House W, situated amidst rice paddies and asparagus fields, blends rustic inspiration with cutting-edge sustainability. Its solar-powered design supports off-grid living and generates nearly twice the energy the home requires annually.
House W is located on the site of a former farmer’s barn, drawing from its agricultural surroundings to shape its aesthetic and structure. The home’s exterior is clad in a combination of timber and a solar skin, featuring 56 panels with a total capacity of 23 kW. Combined with a battery array, this setup ensures self-sufficiency, while a heat pump connected to a nearby water source regulates the home’s temperature year-round.
Although specific energy consumption figures aren’t available, Florian Busch Architects confirms that the solar array generates nearly double the home’s annual requirements.
Rather than a single large structure, House W consists of two barn-like volumes split and reconnected with expansive glazing. This design choice was initially driven by budget considerations, allowing for a phased construction approach. As the architects explain:
“Ironically, the idea of breaking a large simple volume into pieces was triggered by an initial requirement which in the end was lifted… The strategy of splitting a larger volume into pieces and rotating them provides the basis for the annex(es) to preserve the integrity of the overall, complement not undo it.”
The result is a home that balances functionality and flexibility while maintaining an organic connection with its environment.
Spanning 163 sq m (1,754 sq ft) across two floors, the home’s interior is defined by timber finishes, high ceilings, and open layouts. At its core lies a glazed central space, designed to enhance natural ventilation and light distribution. Adjustable louvers manage sunlight exposure, blocking excess heat in summer while harnessing warmth in winter.