atelier bow wow: beach house, japan

‘beach house’ by atelier bow wow, chiba, japanall images © atelier bow wow

japanese firm atelier bow wow has recently completed the beach house in chiba, japan. the project consists of two distinct parts: a vertical wood box presenting itself at street side and a horizontal glass and reinforced concrete element towards the interior of the site.the timber-clad steel frame mass creates a more ‘traditional’ presence along the street, containing the private bedrooms and main entry.

just behind, a small staircase leads to a large open wooden space housing the living room and social areas, supported on an angular concrete plinth on stilts. the rooftop contains a garden and an additional exterior space in which to socialize and enjoy the outdoors. a horizontal layer of large square windows fills the interior with light and extends views to the outside, while an overhanging canopy helps shade from direct sunlight.

street side elevation

entry

social functions on a concrete base with a rooftop garden

social area

wood mass staircase