Japanese home aims to cut carbon emissions by half

Japan’s Sekisui House Ltd. is set to begin sales of a structurally reinforced single-family home that boasts enhanced heat-insulating performance.

By covering the roof, floors and walls entirely with materials to keep heat in or out, the Be Sai+e’s energy-efficient construction helps reduce utility bills and carbon dioxide emissions by 35-50 per cent, the company says.

Strengthened steel frames and walls make larger windows possible. And with its open ceiling space, flat balcony and large canopies, the Be Sai+e is also designed to offer the liberating feeling of traditional Japanese-style housing.

Pricing starts from 600,000 yen (US$7,093) per tsubo, or 3.3 sqm. The firm is seeking orders for 250 units a month.