Architect Tsukasa Ono designed this housing project on Japan's Yakushima island to have a positive impact on its natural setting, using a "regenerative" approach to improve the soil by promoting the growth of mycelium and bacteria.Sumu Yakushima is a community created by eight co-owners and situated on a hillside site forming part of a farm with views towards the sea.

Ono is the only architect in the community and was responsible for the design concept. Other members have different skills, including as project managers, financial consultants, environmental consultants and energy specialists.The land the community is built on is owned by one of the members. The site and layout of the buildings were determined following a thorough appraisal of existing tree positions, water flow and other environmental factors.

The project seeks to minimise its impact on the land and uses a principle that Ono calls "regenerative architecture" to reframe the relationship between human habitation and nature.The layout of the buildings was determined by existing tree positions.This approach combines traditional Japanese civil engineering with contemporary technology to create buildings that adapt to their surroundings and contribute positively to the growth of plants and other organisms.The buildings nestle among the existing trees and are elevated above the forest floor to promote the natural flow of air from the hills to the sea.

Ono also used a fermented plaster for the interior walls and floors that was made by mixing charcoal and a special type of bacteria. The plaster helps to create a stable internal environment by preventing mould and other putrefactive bacteria, according to the architect.The Sumu Yakushima buildings feature comfortable living spaces that are airtight and highly insulated, minimising the need for artificial heating and cooling. All energy is generated by solar panels and stored in batteries, with local firewood used for heating and cooking.