tomoko taguchi architect + associates: trapezium house

tomoko taguchi architect + associates: trapezium house

we recently came across a building from 2009, designed by female architect tomoko taguchi for a young couple with had two main requests. for one they wanted an open floorplan with a ‘music hall’, where friends are always welcome to perform and entertain. secondly, they wanted to to be able to leave the curtains open while maintaining a certain level of privacy.

the design by tomoko taguchi for the roughly trapezoidal house addresses both of the clients’ wishes. angled walls, stepped platforms, and a floating central staircase create nooks and corners within the open design where prying eyes would be unable to reach. full panels of windows are set above standing height in the kitchen and work areas, providing ample natural light without permitting the interior to be viewed from outdoors. in the finished attic atrium with loft, stacked shelving and surfaces create a dynamic workspace.

(left) view of the house from the street
(right) the approach to the front door

an open floor plan benefits from the ample light of raised windows

 view down into the space from the upstairs

 kitchen with raised window paneling

atrium (above) and finished basement (below)

floor plan of ‘trapezium house’