architecture

Utility Integration

Power Distribution (Whisker-Punk):

  • Overhead: Cables and pipes run along building facades, supported by decorative brackets
  • Underground: Major conduits buried under streets, access panels marked and decorated
  • Building Integration: Connection points designed as architectural features, not hidden
  • Aesthetic: Copper pipes, brass valves, pressure gauges become decorative elements
  • Maintenance: Accessible catwalks, color-coded systems, regular inspection schedules

Water & Sanitation:

  • Aqueducts: Stone or brick channels, often elevated, visible in cityscape
  • Pipes: Bamboo (traditional), copper (modern), ceramic
  • Wells: Community wells with decorative covers, hand pumps or bucket systems
  • Drainage: Stone channels, covered with removable grates
  • Waste: Composting systems, collection for agriculture

Lighting:

  • Street Lights: Posts with lanterns (oil or early gas), some electric in modern areas
  • Building Exterior: Hanging lanterns (chochin) near doorways
  • Interior: Oil lamps, candles, gas lamps, early electric bulbs
  • Special: Glow-plant lanterns (see Flora section)

Heating & Cooling:

  • Heating: Irori (sunken hearth), Kotatsu (heated table), steam radiators (Whisker-Punk)
  • Cooling: Architectural (high ceilings, cross-ventilation), sudare (bamboo blinds), water features, fans