While traditional Japanese folk houses are widely appreciated for their beautiful aesthetic and for the skill with which they were built, many of these extraordinary structures are being torn down and incinerated.

The Kominka Collective works with our partners Toda Komuten and Kominka North America to preserve Japan’s traditional architecture and the craftsmanship it embodies through the relocation and creative reuse of endangered structures, complemented by education, cultural exchange, and community engagement.

What we do

In-Place Preservation & Stewardship

Supporting individuals and organizations in identifying structurally sound kominka that remain in place, and advising on sensitive stewardship and reuse in Japan.

Relocation of Endangered Kominka

Coordinating the dismantling and relocation of kominka and other traditional structures at risk of demolition - either for creative reuse as homes, galleries, shops, studios, ADUs, and other spaces, or for faithful reconstruction in cultural and educational settings such as museums and Japanese gardens.