The site is situated on a small hill just 300 meters from the coast, offering unobstructed sea views and a constant breeze throughout the day.
The roof and walls extend gracefully from a single central pillar, resembling an open umbrella. This design provides enough height to shield the interior from strong Okinawan sunlight and public view. During summer, direct sunlight is prevented from entering indoors, allowing the sea breeze to flow freely when windows are open—eliminating the need for air conditioning.
The exterior walls are crafted from durable, non-aging glass designed to withstand Okinawa’s harsh climate. With only one supporting pillar, foundation and structural costs are minimized. The use of glass simplifies the detailing, making the solid structure appear to float in mid-air. This striking contrast gives the building a distinctive architectural presence.
Inside, the layout features a spacious open plan where the single central pillar enhances the perception of depth. Although the pillar is the sole support, its size rivals that of a wall, contributing to a sense of expansive space. The interior employs a restrained palette—concrete and wood—while careful adjustments in ceiling and wall heights create a flexible environment that can easily adapt to future changes.
While the form may appear unconventional at first, it directly responds to the local climate, environmental conditions, construction cost constraints, and the client’s wish for a relaxed lifestyle. This home is designed with a flexible structure that not only accommodates daily living but also offers resilience and adaptability under any circumstance.
Architecture is fundamentally about designing with gravity in mind.
In this house, the load-bearing elements are minimized, with the concrete roof and walls seemingly lifted off the ground. This approach balances connection with the outdoor environment, interior comfort, and budgetary considerations.
While gravity remains constant at 9.8 m/s², its effects can be managed through form, material choice, and scale. Though this principle is basic, it allows for the creation of captivating structures, expanded spatial experiences, and harmonious relationships between interior and exterior.
Project Drawings
△ Plan View
△ Elevation Drawing
△ Section Diagram
Project Information
Architect: IG Architects
Area: 60 square meters
Project Year: 2022
Manufacturers: Modulus X, Sanwa Company
Lead Architect: Masato Igarashi, IG Architects
Structural Engineering: Yousuke Misaki
Lighting Design: Modulax Inc., Eri Nagao
Construction: Yukimitsu Shimoji
Architectural Design: IG Architects
Structural Engineer: EQSD
Construction Contractor: FUN SHARE Ltd
Location: Japan
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