A Rare Futuro House in Japan
Maebashi, Gunma is a city worth visiting for many reasons, such as the wonderful Shiroiya Hotel designed by Sou Fujimoto. But most people overlook the other architectural wonder that is just around the corner – an iconic space age Futuro House – one of only two in existence in Japan (The other being in Karuizawa, Japan)
It belongs to the architectural school “Felicia” (学校法人フェリカ学園フェリカ家づくり専門学校), and occupies a space in their campus car park. Quite an unusual sight in this quiet residential neighborhood! It would be interesting to know more about how the school managed to acquire this structure. It appears the house is not used on a day to day basis, but is occasionally opened up during school open days – with one large space and retro styled seating inside.
Futuro House History
The iconic Futuro House was created in 1968 by Finnish architect Matti Suuronen, who envisioned a lightweight, easily transportable dwelling suited for leisure living in remote areas. Fewer than 100 Futuros were produced and many were shipped overseas – today there are 63 confirmed in existence scattered across the world in the most unusual places.
Visiting the Futuro
The project is located a 20 minute walk from JR Maebashi Station. The site is freely accessible at all hours.
Project Details
Architect: Matti Suuronen
Photographs : © Finbarr Fallon (2025)
