apollo architects builds 'ortho' residence in japan with massive offset concrete volumes

apollo architects & associates has completed the private ‘ortho’ house, located within a quiet suburban neighborhood in the kanto region of japan. the clients purchased the irregularly shaped lot as a place to spend meaningful family time. the design of the concrete dwelling makes use of the distinct topography, in order to generate large courtyards, which were one of the main requests from the owners.

all images by masao nishikawa

the exterior designed by apollo architects & associates is defined by two massive, offset concrete volumes with a board-formed finish. residents enter via the built-in garage that is set back from the road, a design that takes advantage of the fact that the property has a higher average elevation than the road. the main level of the home is accessed by stairs or elevator from the underground parking area, enhancing security.

on the main level, a small courtyard and a large garden terrace on the south side serve as intermediary zones where the residents can enjoy the outdoor environment while maintaining privacy. the closed kitchen—a request of the client’s wife—includes a bar counter so that the family can eat, as well as cook in the same area. the kitchen is connected to the coffered-ceiling family room via the courtyard, providing both rhythm and depth to the space.

a low step leads to a hallway dappled with light and shadow from a skylight, and beyond that to the laundry room, master bedroom, and other private spaces. all these rooms face the garden terrace on the south side, allowing the residents to spend as much time as they want outside without worrying about being seen by neighbors.

project info:

name: ortho
architecture office: apollo architects & associates
lead architect: satoshi kurosaki
site area: 792.67m2
total floor area: 410.94 m2 
structural engineer: nomura structures
lighting design: sirius lighting office