FORM / kouichi kimura completes 'frame house' in japan with cantilevering upper floor

FORM / kouichi kimura architects has completed the two-story ‘frame house’ with a cantilevering upper floor in shiga, japan. the residence is located within a rustic landscape, facing a walking path with a row of cherry trees and a small stream. its exterior is composed of carefully-proportioned volumes, with strategically-placed openings that frame views of the idyllic surroundings.all images by norihito yamauchi

FORM / kouichi kimura architects has combined concrete and metal for the exterior of ‘frame house’, while the overhanging cantilever adds to the building’s unique character. in addition, it serves to shelter the approach to the entrance or to the parking lot. inside, the entrance hall of the building is complete with a low ceiling and serves as a flexible space that can also be used for the client’s shop. the tranquil views and light entering through the limited opening area produce a sense of comfort that is unique to this space, inducing communication.

the upper level of the house centers around the open plan living-dining area, which is connected with each room to provide a circulatory floor plan. in addition, a variety of ceiling heights allow the space to be recognized as a three-dimensional volume. ‘I also placed an importance on producing light and openings,’ says kouichi kimura. ‘the light from the skylight at the staircase clearly highlights the step edges. it is also changed into various forms that are reflected onto a metal wall.’

large openings bring in bright sunlight within the living-dining room, which is complete with a coved ceiling that provides a gentle gradation of light. the openings also frame the scenery and sky outside, while furniture such as the dining table or a built-in bench transform ordinary scenes into unique moments.

‘to live with the surrounding environment, it is important to clearly picture what kind of scenes you will view and what you will spend your time on,’ notes kouichi kimura. ‘by interpreting the environment and introducing it in architecture, you will achieve new findings and fulfilment in the scenery which you have ever taken for granted.’