The design for a planned community of 83 homes in Ami Town, Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan, draws inspiration from its rich history and context of aviation and solar energy. Ami Town is renowned for its solar energy accumulation and its significant role in aviation history, including Charles Lindbergh’s notable visit. The design concept, “Living with the Sky: Ami-sora,” emerges from this backdrop, intertwining the legacy of aviation and solar power. It reflects on historical moments such as the establishment of the Kasumigaura Naval Air Station in 1921, the Zeppelin’s visit in 1929 during its global voyage, and Lindbergh’s first Japanese port of call in 1931. Additionally, the widespread adoption of solar energy in unused lands and former airport sites highlights the town’s affinity for solar power.
The design focuses on three main aspects: 1.A unique concept derived from Ami Town’s context, “Living with the Sky: Ami-sora,” shaping the development. 2.The adoption of colorful facades and a focus on the proportions of windows and roofs, offering a Nordic-inspired exterior that contributes to a striking. 3.Incorporating solar power systems in all 83 homes, promoting sustainable design and environmental stewardship.
The “Living with the Sky: Ami-sora” concept harbors two major design themes. The first is the Nordic-inspired design and urban formation, acknowledging Ami Town’s unique historical connection with the West and Nordic countries through aviation. Lindbergh’s Swedish immigrant background inspired a Nordic motif in the exterior design, featuring bright and colorful façades, strategically placed vertical windows, distinctive roof shapes, and detailed design control. This collective visual forms a radiant symbol of Ami Town’s future. The second theme centers on eco-friendly living through solar energy, with each home equipped with solar panels, contributing to CO2 reduction across the community. This approach emphasizes a sustainable coexistence with the environment, marking a new future for Ami Town with “Living with the Sky: Ami-sora.”