cuboid house in kitakarasuyama by mizuishi architect atelier

japanese designer kota mizuishi of mizuishi architect atelier has completed ‘house in kitakarasuyama’, a dwelling that occupies a relatively small corner plot in a residential neighborhood of tokyo. the challenge presented to the architect was to develop a scheme that enabled seclusion and privacy while opening up the home to the immediate environment.

the family residence, which provides for a couple and their two young sons, is defined by contrasting zones. while ‘in’ areas of the home are protected and functional, ‘out’ spaces feature both large and small windows, presenting external views. additionally, four sliding doors traverse the three-storey property, changing the relationship between the flexible internal volumes. consequently, the cuboid structure provides a variety of spatial contrasts and interactions. sleeping accommodation is found at basement level, while the ground floor offers washroom facilities and a sunroom. the upper storey houses the family’s primary living accommodation with a dining room, lounge and external balcony.

the upper storey houses the family’s primary living accommodation
image by hiroshi tanigawa (also main image)

four sliding doors traverse the property, changing the relationship between the flexible internal volumes
image by hiroshi tanigawa

the cuboid structure provides a variety of spatial contrasts and interactions
images by hiroshi tanigawa

the home challenges the dichotomy between privacy and transparency through a series of carefully positioned windows
images by hiroshi tanigawa

the family residence provides for a couple and their two young sons
images by hiroshi tanigawa

a spiral staircase connect the three-storey home
images by hiroshi tanigawa

‘house in kitakarasuyama’ glows gently at night
images by hiroshi tanigawa

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project info:

location: setagaya, tokyo, japan
type: residential house
architect: kota mizuishi / mizuishi architect atelier
structural engineer: kentaro nagasaka
lighting designer: tatsuoki nakajima
contractor: show-yo
photography: hiroshi tanigawa
site area: 78.09 sqm
building area: 31.14 sqm
total floor area: 91.19 sqm
structure: RC+wood
design period: october, 2012 – june, 2013
construction period: july, 2013 – december, 2013