Title

Author(s)

Emily Marie Shiga

Affiliation

DOI

https://doi.org/10.65686/KGRX3969

Keywords

空き家(Akiya – Vacant House), Sustainable Re-Use, Community Revitalisation

PP

865-871

How to Cite

Shiga, Emily Marie. “空き家 (Akiya): Japan’s Abandoned Assets.” In Proceedings of the International Conference on Adaptive Reuse. Volume 1, edited by Andrea Crudeli, Francesca Molle, and Emanuele Carrai, 865–871. Firenze: STH Press, 2026.

Abstract

The long-lived, culturally significant buildings that define Europe’s urban landscape are often cited as exemplars of sustainability and the circular economy. Adaptive reuse in this context typically refers to grand, iconic structures, with success measured through cultural, societal and economic value. However, greater emphasis should be placed on the adaptability and lifecycle of everyday architecture. This shift prompts reflection on the global applicability of adaptive reuse and calls for a deeper understanding of relationships between materials, context, people and architecture. Japan’s escalating vacant house crisis, presents a compelling context for rethinking reuse. Driven by an ageing population, shifting social structures and economy, vacant properties have become a pressing issue impacting communities, housing markets and the environment. In 2023 Japan had nine million vacant homes. Rural areas face cultural erosion through depopulation, while urban centers struggle with overpopulation. This contrast highlights the complexities of reuse, demanding nuanced engagement with cultural, demographic and economic factors. My research Japan’s Abandoned Assets, examined four dimensions of sustainable reuse: environmental, societal, habitation and economic, while also emphasising heritage, memory and community. Technical considerations such as construction, materiality and environmental conditions were also examined. Case studies across urban, suburban and rural contexts underscored the urgency of proactive, innovative strategies. Sustainable reuse extends beyond surface renovation, it requires cultivating ecosystems of connection, engagement and synergy between residents and newcomers. This research contributes to broader discourses on sustainable development and community revitalisation, proposing policy and community-driven initiatives, exploring reuse through adaptation, preservation and deconstruction as mediums for expanding architectural possibilities. Though complex, this phenomenon offers a global opportunity to reshape architecture. Ultimately, adaptation emerges at the forefront in contemporary practice, addressing two of the most pressing challenges of the twenty-first century; urbanisation and climate change.

Edited by
Andrea Crudeli
Francesca Molle
Emanuele Carrai

Publisher
STH Press, Firenze

ISBN Paperback – 9791281661141
ISBN Ebook – 9791281661158
DOI – https://doi.org/10.65686/SISY7263

Year
2026

Proceedings of
International Conference on Adaptive Reuse
hosted by The University of Pisa, Italy
15-19 September 2025, at the Gispoteca di Arte Antica dell’Università di Pisa.