The construction site is located in the suburbs of Tokyo, nestled between a typical detached house and an apartment building. The lot is extremely narrow, only as wide as a single parking space at 2.5 meters. This standalone residence features a unique layout with a storage room positioned in the center, while the adjacent floors are staggered by half a floor height.
Instead of doors separating the rooms, slender staircases flank the storage room, both dividing and linking the living spaces. This design was created in response to the client’s request. Previously living in a house with a typical layout and enclosed bedrooms, the client found it difficult to communicate freely.
The storage room stands independently and is not assigned to any specific room, allowing flexible use of the surrounding spaces. Given the small size of the house, the storage room is surprisingly large, which challenges typical perceptions of space. It resembles a large box placed inside a tall, single-room shell. The extended staircase evokes imagery of narrow alleyways found in medieval cities.
The minimalist interior design offers an escape from the world of mass consumption. Its uniformity and repetition emphasize the changes in natural light throughout the day. This home serves as a small, peaceful retreat amid today’s challenges.
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