Sumitomo Forestry unveils KIBLO modular timber system

New Modular Timber System for Faster Construction

Sumitomo Forestry has developed a new modular timber building system, tentatively named KIBLO, aimed at reducing construction timelines and labor needs. The system combines factory-built wooden modules with detachable connectors to facilitate quicker assembly and support circular building practices.

Each KIBLO unit measures approximately 10 square meters and is designed for manufacturing off-site, followed by transportation and assembly at the construction location. After its initial use, the system allows for modules to be dismantled, relocated, and reassembled for different purposes, including temporary facilities during emergencies. Commercial availability for the KIBLO system is projected to begin in 2027.

Pilot Project at Japan's 2027 Horticultural Expo

The KIBLO system is currently being deployed for a back-office building at Sumitomo Forestry’s 100 Forests pavilion, part of the 2027 International Horticultural Expo (Green x Expo 2027) in Japan. This two-story structure spans approximately 180 square meters and is constructed from 18 KIBLO modules.

Following the completion of foundations, module installation for the pilot building took three days, with subsequent carpentry work finalized in an additional three days. The building is intended for dismantling, relocation, and reuse once the exhibition concludes, demonstrating the system’s adaptability and reusability in real-world applications.

Module Design and Performance Specifications

Individual KIBLO modules feature precise dimensions of 5,460mm in length, 1,820mm in width, and 2,850mm in height. The system allows modules to be connected along both their longer and shorter sides, providing flexibility in building layouts.

Sumitomo Forestry designed narrow, 600mm-wide load-bearing walls to maximize usable interior space, resulting in an effective interior width of approximately 4,680mm and a ceiling height of 2,400mm. The detachable connectors are engineered to maintain joint performance through multiple assembly and disassembly cycles.

For an 80 square meter model building, Sumitomo Forestry estimates KIBLO could halve the construction period from 14 weeks to seven weeks compared to traditional methods. The system also offers insulation performance equivalent to Japan’s Insulation Grade Four, making it suitable for permanent structures.

Implications for Asia's Construction Sector

For architects, developers, and procurement teams across Asia, KIBLO offers a solution to increasing labor shortages and the demand for more sustainable building practices. The system’s factory-based production can help ensure consistent quality and reduce on-site construction time, which is critical for projects with tight schedules.

Specifiers seeking materials for adaptable and reusable structures, particularly for temporary event spaces or rapidly deployable commercial buildings, can consider KIBLO. Its use of commonly available timber also streamlines material sourcing.

Project managers should inquire with Sumitomo Forestry about lead times and specific module configurations to assess suitability for their 2027 pipeline projects.