High-standard residential buildings are situated in Takagi City, Osaka, Japan. To create interconnected internal spaces within a limited footprint, the design employs a spiral layout featuring gradually ascending stairs that seamlessly link areas at varying heights. This continuous spiral space not only offers residents a distinctive living experience but also enables easy movement between the roof and the ground level.
This design concept was initially applied in the Gongben Residence project. Here, the space between floors was fully utilized to incorporate desks and shelves for storage, while maintaining visual connections and interaction between levels. For this high-end residential building, we adopted the same design approach, expanding it to explore new possibilities.
▲ Axonometric diagram
Due to budget constraints, an economical wooden structure was selected for construction. This choice limited the openness between floor slabs, enclosing the space between them. Unlike the Miyamoto residence, the interior views here are not continuous. The floor plan is based on a grid rotated 45 degrees, creating a simple yet intricate layout that supports a unique double-helix spatial connection. Two spiral pathways rise from the ground floor, leading to the kitchen and dining area on the second floor, and extending all the way to the roof.
▲ Plan view
Due to local residential setback regulations, the roof has an irregular shape, giving the building a distinctive polyhedral form. Inside, the residence retains characteristics typical of traditional housing.
The construction site is located in a suburban residential area of Gaogui City, developed on sloped terrain reminiscent of terraced fields rising in layers. This natural topography inspired the residence’s design. Although the building footprint is modest, it features 16 “floors” at various heights, each differing in shape and orientation. This arrangement creates a continuous interior space while fulfilling the diverse needs of residents.
Project Drawings
▲ Site axis measurement
▲ Sectional view
Project Information
Project type: Independent residential building
Location: Osaka, Japan
Architectural firm: Shimada Yang Architectural Firm
Area: 96.0 m²
Year: 2018
Photographer: New Architecture Society
Lead architect: Yoyo Shimada
Design team: Shimada Yang, Yasuda Yang
Structural design: tmsd Wantianlong Construction Design Firm
Structural design team: Takashi Wada, Yasujiro Kato
Landscape: COCA-Z (Ancient Forge and Zhi Da Ye)
Construction: Shangshu Sasahara (Shangjian Planning)
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