apollo architects and associates: ARROW house

apollo architects and associates: ARROW house
image © masao nishikawa

a small plot in tokyo is turned into a comfortable refuge by utilizing the depth of the building’s approach and artfully employed glazing. ‘arrow house’ by apollo architects and associates uses as open plan and transparent partitions for a photo studio facade on the first floor, an intermediate space and a modest kitchen and bathroom– all within directional slanted walls. the shallow sloped approach-stairs to the second floor entrance nicely match the sharp inclined wall and constitute the characteristic facade, and as a result they function as a novelty to invite visitors. the pitched roof formed by the regulation on the north side creates a unique exterior and interior appearance. light from the slit-shaped skylight on the peak of the roof casts dramatic shadows in the entirely white-colored room. an unblocked sky view from the skylight also has the effect of making one forget that the house is in a densely populated residential area. the second floor is an open one-room space, including the loft space that is accessed by a ladder, and can be used for multiple purposes. the rhythmic continuation of the “diagonal” elements, which are glimpsed in many spaces, creates a comfortable unease in the room.

apollo architects and associates: ARROW house
image © masao nishikawa

apollo architects and associates: ARROW house
image © masao nishikawa

apollo architects and associates: ARROW house
image © masao nishikawa

apollo architects and associates: ARROW house
image © masao nishikawa

apollo architects and associates: ARROW house
image © masao nishikawa

apollo architects and associates: ARROW house
image © masao nishikawa

apollo architects and associates: ARROW house
image © masao nishikawa

apollo architects and associates: ARROW house
image © masao nishikawa

apollo architects and associates: ARROW house
image © masao nishikawa

apollo architects and associates: ARROW house
image © masao nishikawa

apollo architects and associates: ARROW house
image © masao nishikawa

apollo architects and associates: ARROW house
image © masao nishikawa

project info:

location : shinagawa ward tokyo
date of completion : march 2013
principal use : private housing
structure : steel framing
site area : 118.36m2
building area: 46.43m2
total floor area : 84.22m2 (42.11m2/1f, 42.11m2/2f)
structural engineer : kenta masaki
mechanical engineer : zenei shimada