Architecture Forum “Thinking About Homes 100 Years from Now” to Be Held at TOYAMA Kirari

On Saturday, February 22, 2025, the architecture forum “Thinking About Homes 100 Years from Now” will be held at TOYAMA Kirari (Toyama Glass Art Museum), on the 2nd floor at Cafe Mokuba.

ENJOYWORKS Co., Ltd., a real estate company based in Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture, is hosting the event. The company has also worked on projects in Toyama Prefecture.

Toyama Prefecture ranks among the highest in Japan in terms of homeownership rate and total floor area per household. However, in recent years, it has been facing a serious problem with vacant houses. This forum will explore what kind of homes can avoid becoming a burden for future generations and what kind of housing should be passed down to them.

Related: Why is the homeownership rate so high in Hokuriku (Fukui and Toyama)?

A panel discussion will share visions for “housing 100 years from now” and reflect on the region’s future. The panel will feature four experts based in Hokuriku, including architects and creators. Among them is Hiroyuki Akashi, the producer of Hokuroku.

Momoko Shoji, who is in charge of the forum at ENJOYWORKS, commented:

“We hope this event will allow attendees to learn about new housing options and rethink their own homes and lifestyles.”

The event will take place from 16:00 to 18:00, with free admission. The capacity is around 50 people, and while same-day participation is allowed, advance registration via the website is recommended. Participants will also receive a complimentary drink from Cafe Mokuba.

(Comments from the Hokuroku Editorial Members: The venue is close to my house. Producer Akashi will be there. I also know some of the other panelists. That alone makes me feel like I have to go—but realistically, it all depends on how well my back recovers from a sudden slipped disc. As I have always questioned the assumption that a high homeownership rate automatically equals happiness, I wish there were more rental homes in town that people could truly take pride in living in. Sakamoto, Chief Editor

I will also be speaking at the event. At first, I wondered if I had anything to say about newly built houses, but then I realized that even traditional homes were once new. This made me see that there are universal stories to tell about any house. I’ll be joining with enthusiasm! Akashi, Producer

With changing lifestyles and rising land prices, our perspectives on housing have evolved over time. Meanwhile, homes built during the first baby boom and the bubble era are now reaching the stage where maintenance is essential. Isn’t this the perfect time to rethink our approach to housing together? Takei, Development Producer)

Story: Mai Takahashi

Editing and Translating: Masayoshi Sakamoto