appollo architects create urban home in bustling neighborhood of tokyo

apollo architects and associates has completed a small house named ‘slide’ for a family in eastern tokyo. the home’s innovative design utilizes space efficiently to maximize the family’s living arrangement. the dark grey galvalume cladding blends gently into the surrounding environment of the residential neighborhood.

all images © masao nishikawa

given the lot’s location, across from an elementary school, APOLLO architects chose to prioritize privacy while designing a space that was as open as possible. intimate spaces such as the bedrooms are located on the first floor, while the second floor contains a family room with a high, sloped ceiling finished in walnut planks aligned lengthwise to give the space a greater feeling of depth and dynamic connection.

intimate spaces such as the bedrooms are located on the first floor, while the second floor contains a family room

in order to maximize use of the lot’s narrow frontage, the second floor’s façade consists of one large window. the aperture is shielded with wooden louvers that give privacy to the interior, while still allowing light, breezes, and views for the residents. a steel staircase in the family room provides access to the roof, but also functions as a sculptural element accenting the high-ceilinged room.

a steel staircase in the family room provides access to the roof

the rooftop is surrounded by walls, creating a private courtyard that serves as an additional communal area. clerestory windows facing onto this terrace bring soft natural light into the family room throughout the day. the home allows family members to move through the vertical space and find their own favorite places to relax; this, perhaps, is the unique freedom and pleasure of a small urban house.

the second floor contains a family room with a high, sloped ceiling finished in walnut planks