VUILD pioneers self-build construction with off-grid residence
Architecture studio VUILD completes Nesting Naoshima, an off-grid residence that explores self-build construction techniques. Located on the art island of Naoshima, the high-performance home serves as a secondary residence for its owner and doubles as rental accommodation to support the local economy. The project marks an innovative step toward developing a self-build model that simplifies construction without compromising on energy efficiency and sustainability, as the whole residence runs on renewable solar energy.
The foundation employs a spike frame method, a pile foundation with driven single pipes, enabling completion within just two days. Structural members, including columns and beams, are crafted from 30-millimeter-thick cedar wood, machined with a Shopbot CNC router, and pre-assembled in a factory. By designing the structure from board materials, the heaviest components remain under 20 kilograms, eliminating the need for cranes or heavy machinery during assembly.
all images by Tomoyuki Kusunose, courtesy of VUILD, unless stated otherwise
Nesting Naoshima’s structure reduces energy consumption
In May 2023, an open call was announced for the first owner to construct a self-built home using VUILD’s method. From over 50 applicants, one was selected to realize the Japanese team’s prototype, challenging the development of a self-build construction system for every phase of the project.
The load-bearing walls of the residence incorporate diagonal bracing, while a prefabricated curtain wall system enhances airtightness and thermal insulation. The roof flashing follows a modularized design, and the interior ceiling is structured as panels, reducing the necessity for specialized tools or expertise. These labor-saving strategies enabled the entire construction process to be completed within two months. The home achieves a thermal performance value (UA) of 0.44 W/m²K, meeting HEAT20 G2 standards to ensure high insulation and airtightness—key factors in reducing energy consumption for self-sufficient living.
Further reinforcing its off-grid capabilities, the south-facing roof integrates an 8.16kW solar array, projected to generate 9,300kWh annually. This system fully powers the residence, including small air conditioning units in the attic space, making it an energy-independent prototype for future self-built homes.
VUILD completes Nesting Naoshima, an off-grid residence that explores self-build construction techniques.
the project marks an innovative step toward developing a self-build model that simplifies construction
the whole residence runs on renewable solar energy
the load-bearing walls of the residence incorporate diagonal bracing
