Sakai Architects has designed Amami House on Amami Island, Japan.

Located in the heart of Amami Island, this off-grid house reimagines self-reliant living in a humid subtropical climate with limited solar resources.

Inspired by the island's traditional buntō layout, five independent volumes create fluid in-between spaces that connect the interiors, veranda and garden.

Elevated like a takakura granary and shaded by deep eaves, the structure harnesses wind, insulation and controlled light, instead of air conditioning.

Solar power enables full autonomy, while composting, a vegetable garden and a wood-fired sauna establish a circular ecosystem.

As a result, Amami House becomes both a resilient shelter and communal platform, sustaining local traditions of gathering and collective living.