Key Facts
• April 2025: ‘Himi Old Materials Network’ established to repurpose materials from demolished buildings.
• 16-17 August 2025: Second sales event held at the former Matsuya Hall in Himi City.
• 30 members, including local residents and architecture students, participate in the initiative.
• Materials salvaged from 20 sites, including public and private demolitions.
• Items sold include shoji screens, wooden doors, and planks, priced between $7–$35.
• Initiative inspired by Tokyo University of Science professor Nobutaka Nosaku for earthquake recovery.
• Vice-chair Yoshida Eibun emphasizes emotional and environmental benefits of material reuse.
• Sales event hours: 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM on August 17, 2025.
Summary
The ‘Himi Old Materials Network,’ a community group in Toyama Prefecture, is repurposing reusable materials from buildings demolished after the Noto Peninsula earthquake. Established in April 2025, the group includes 30 members, such as local residents and architecture students from universities like Tokyo University of Science and Meiji University. The initiative, inspired by Nobutaka Nosaku, aims to preserve historical and valuable domestic wood while promoting sustainable practices. On August 16-17, 2025, the group held its second sales event at the former Matsuya Hall in Himi City, offering items like shoji screens and wooden planks for $7–$35. Vice-chair Yoshida Eibun highlighted the emotional and environmental benefits of reusing materials, aiming to foster a circular economy. The event continues on August 17 from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
