This house is situated in a peaceful residential neighborhood in northern Kyoto. It is home to a couple and their three children. The property is surrounded by neighboring houses on the east, west, and south sides, with a narrow road running along the north.
Initially, the couple had no specific requests, but as design proposals were presented, their preferences became clearer. They favored simple, open layouts that allow them to keep an eye on their children at all times. The house features a spacious design with a double-height living room positioned at the center.
With the parking area and essential interior spaces accounted for, very little garden space remained at the rear of the site. Even if windows were added to the exterior walls, neighboring houses would block much of the natural light. Therefore, incorporating courtyard lighting became a viable solution.
However, integrating an atrium within the narrow site compresses the space on the left side. This led to the idea of bringing trees indoors, effectively blending a garden into the living space. The three children grow up alongside the tree, which becomes like a family member, fostering a stronger connection between them and the home.
Reflecting her husband’s tastes, the design balances modern structural elements with traditional Japanese style. The bathroom faces the courtyard, resembling an open-air bath. The husband, who enjoys showering, can bathe with their children while enjoying views of the trees. Although a curtain was initially installed as a privacy measure, after several months of living here, the family has grown comfortable with the outdoor bathroom and often leaves the curtain open. Through extensive discussions and design iterations, the building’s character has come to closely embody that of its owners.
Second Floor:
Night View: (BIM design)
▲ Floor Plan
▲ Sectional View
▲ Section Sketch
Project Information:
Architectural Firm: 07BEACH
Location: Kyoto, Japan
Category: Independent Residential Building
Lead Architect: Joe Chikamori
Building Area: 131.0 m²
Year of Completion: 2019
Photographer: Yosuke Ohtake
Suppliers: A&A, Panasonic, VELUX Commercial
Structural Engineer: STROOG
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