Greendo: Hobbit-Style Apartment Complex In Japan

Architect Keita Nagata has built an apartment complex into the region’s existing landscape in Takamatsu, Japan. Named ‘Greendo’ (Miyawaki Gurindo), each of the project’s five residences is embedded into the terrain, sandwiched between two roads in a residential and mountainous part of town. Despite its relatively small scale, the complex project took two and a half years to complete. The complex is designed to blend harmoniously with nature, often incorporating green roofs covered in vegetation that not only provide insulation but also promote biodiversity and reduce stormwater runoff.

Greendo is an incredible apartment complex inspired by hobbit houses. Built on a hill, the complex includes 5 residences covered with greenery

Greendo

The use of natural materials like wood and stone helps maintain a connection to the environment while offering a comfortable and energy-efficient living space. Inside these Hobbit-style apartments, you might find open and inviting layouts, organic shapes, and efficient use of space to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The incorporation of energy-saving technologies, such as solar panels and efficient insulation, aligns with the sustainable principles guiding the construction. Additionally, communal areas and shared spaces often encourage a sense of community among residents, fostering a close-knit environment that reflects the social aspects of Hobbit culture. These areas might include gardens, communal gathering spaces, and recreational areas that promote interaction among neighbors.

‘I dreamed about bringing back the original landscape to this place,’ explains Keita Nagata

Greendo

Each dwelling has its own outdoor garden overlooking the city below. These green terraces form the roofs of the homes below, providing good thermal insulation and a stabilized internal temperature.

Greendo
Greendo
Greendo
Greendo
Greendo

All Images Courtesy of Keita Nagata Architectural Element