studio move renovates japanese apartment by the coast

studio move renovates japanese apartment by the coast
all images © atsushi shiotani

japan-based studio move led by akihiro nakao has renovated a coastal apartment located in imajuku, fukuoka. the project focuses on fostering a peaceful environment influenced by the sea nearby, while simultaneously retaining the apartment’s original footprint. to give off the illusion of a larger space and minimize the use of walls, the architect decided to adjust the heights of the floorplates. the result sees various platforms inserted to define the different programs within the dwelling. furthermore, wood and concrete are used side-by-side on the walls and flooring, with the insertions defined by the timber and the existing marked by concrete. lastly, the living room, kitchen, dining and sleeping areas are orientated so the inhabitants can catch glimpses of the ocean from every corner of the home.

the living room

concrete and timber are the main materials used

by using less partitions, the architect chose to use curtains and add different heights of floor levels

the timber door blends into the wall

the apartment looks out to the ocean

‘apartment in imajuku’ by studio move