MUJI INFILL 0: Revitalizing Corporate Properties with Sustainability

Revitalizing Corporate Properties: MUJI INFILL 0

In a remarkable shift towards sustainable living, MUJI HOUSE, a subsidiary of the renowned MUJI brand, has embarked on an innovative project titled "MUJI INFILL 0." This initiative is specifically designed to renovate underutilized corporate assets, such as company housing and other structures, breathing new life into them while enhancing their overall value.

Overview of MUJI INFILL 0

MUJI INFILL 0 aims to convert existing corporate-owned properties into functional, modern living spaces that meet or exceed newly constructed standards. The process involves comprehensive renovations on properties like condominiums and communal housing built under the new seismic standards. The renovation focus includes improving insulation performance and energy consumption levels to ensure a comfortable living environment.

The inaugural project under MUJI INFILL 0 involves two company dormitory buildings owned by Hokuriku Electric Power Company, located in Toyama and Ishikawa Prefectures. These buildings will be upgraded to the MUJI INFILL 0 ZEH (Zero Energy House) standards, transforming them into attractive rental properties for future occupants.

Objectives of the Initiative

With escalating construction costs, many corporations find it economically burdensome to demolish outdated dormitories or communal housing. Maintaining these properties incurs ongoing expenses such as maintenance costs and property taxes. Leveraging years of on-ground experience in community-building and renovation practices, MUJI HOUSE is poised to tackle these challenges head-on. With the MUJI INFILL 0 initiative, they aim to elevate the value of these corporate assets, making them functional and appealing.

Key Features of MUJI INFILL 0

1. Enhanced Performance and Value: Each unit in the renovated buildings will undergo a comprehensive full renovation according to MUJI INFILL 0 ZEH standards. This includes addressing any invisible issues within existing structures, employing high-performance insulation materials, and utilizing inner sashes. The target is to achieve insulation performance grade 5 or higher and primary energy consumption grade 6, ensuring a thermal environment that exceeds even new constructions.

2. Flexible Living Spaces: The interiors will boast designs that allow for flexibility and adaptability. Residents can modify their living spaces using MUJI furniture and sliding doors, which enable easy reconfiguration based on lifestyle or family size changes. This adaptability significantly enhances the living experience and suits various personal needs.

3. Comprehensive Renovation Approach: Besides updating private areas, the renovations encompass communal spaces, exterior facades, and even signage, enhancing the overall allure of the buildings. Furthermore, by integrating promotional efforts through the MUJI website and social media, as well as fostering community building initiatives in collaboration with nearby MUJI stores, the approach goes beyond mere renovation to create vibrant living environments.

4. Economic Viability through Subsidies: With an eye on financial practicality, the renovation projects aim to tap into government support systems, such as the 'Long-term Excellent Housing Promotion Project Subsidy,' to ease the financial burden of these high-performance renovations.

Details of the First Project

The partnership with Hokuriku Electric Power Company will see both dormitory buildings undergoing renovations by the end of 2026. The renovation is expected to be completed in phases, with the first building set for occupancy in early 2026, and an associated event at local MUJI stores to kick off tenant applications. Post-renovation, community workshops themed around organization and storage are also being planned, enhancing resident engagement.

Background of MUJI Renovations

Since the launch of MUJI INFILL ZERO in 2015, MUJI has been committed to stringent performance standards in its renovation projects, focusing on properties that meet modern seismic criteria. The approach involves gutting existing structures where necessary and rebuilding using advanced insulation technologies and energy efficiencies, striving to provide long-lasting, safe, and comfortable homes for inhabitants.

As this initiative gains momentum, MUJI INFILL 0 symbolizes a proactive step towards sustainability and community-oriented living, setting a new benchmark for corporate renovations. The transformative potential of this venture positions MUJI at the forefront of responsible urban development, illustrating how unused assets can be revitalized for sustainable living.