Work

Generation of Concrete Block Manufacturing Industry and Public Housing in Postwar Japan (part 2) : Gunma Prefectural Fireproof Apartment and Gonkuro Kume

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study explores the origins of the concrete block (CB) industry in postwar Japan, using Gunma Prefecture as a case where CB production became prominent. Focusing on the Gunma Prefectural Fireproof Apartment—the region’s first CB public housing project—the research analyzes its construction process and design. It finds that the adoption of the “Jukyo-shiki” system, developed by architect Gonkuro Kume, played a crucial role. This adoption acted as a catalyst for the local CB manufacturing industry, linking early public housing initiatives with regional industrial development.

Source: Journal of Architecture and Planning (Transactions of AIJ)

DOI: 10.3130/aija.90.2639

Authors: Ryohei HASHIDA, Yoshiro MORITA, Ryohei KUMAGAI, Shiro WATANABE, Shigetomo KIKUCHI, Hidetoshi HIBINO

Institutions: Okayama University, Tokyo Polytechnic University, Tokyo University of Science, Building Research Institute, Kyushu University

Language: English

Topic: Architecture, Modernity, and Design

Subfield: Architecture

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: bronze

OpenAlex ID: W4416831765

FWCI:

Cites: 4

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