VUILD is an architectural startup founded in 2017 by Koki Akiyoshi. Based in Japan, where two-thirds of the land is covered by forests, VUILD empowers local communities by introducing CNC milling machines into forestry regions to revitalise the woodworking industry and support regional self-sufficiency.

Japan faces pressing social and ecological challenges in both rural and urban areas. Rural regions struggle with depopulation, an ageing society, the decline of the forestry industry, and vulnerability to natural disasters. Urban areas, on the other hand, grapple with a shortage of skilled craftsmen and rising CO₂ emissions from construction.

In this talk, Koki Akiyoshi will present VUILD’s unique approach to these issues through five project case studies. Among them is their latest endeavour: a small-scale timber stadium with approximately 5,000 seats. What sets this project apart is the active involvement of local residents, who participate directly in the construction using locally sourced timber. The building process itself is designed as a celebratory and symbolic event—strengthening the bond between people, place, and architecture.

Through these examples, Koki will explore how architecture can become a catalyst for community engagement and ecological renewal.

A cocktail reception will follow the event.

Language of the event – Italian and Japanese
Please RSVP by emailing events@ecc-italy.eu.