FORM/kouichi kimura architects has designed a series of concrete volumes to create the ‘tranquil house‘ for a private client in shiga, japan. the new building is situated along a highway with a large volume of traffic, therefore the architect sought to provide a home that is introspective and avoids being overlooked.

FORM builds thick concrete volumes to create the tranquil house in japan

evening view from south elevation

all images by norihito yamauchi, yoshihiro asada

 

 

FORM has composed the south elevation of concrete volumes to create a symmetrical façade, in which a central recess announces the main entrance to the house. a thick wall is positioned in the center of this opening to express an idea of depth a provide a place for the viewer’s eye to rest. upon entering the hall, the large space created by the tall volumes welcomes guests with diffused light from the top aperture.

FORM builds thick concrete volumes to create the tranquil house in japan
view from the east

 

 

the living and dining spaces are connected to encompass a large volume. the varying functions of the combined spaces are subtly articulated by differentiating the ceiling height and floor level. at the same time, the light from a carefully positioned opening produces changing shadow and texture, adding depth to the room. 

FORM builds thick concrete volumes to create the tranquil house in japan

evening view from east

 

 

a terrace has been incorporated in the design as an extension of the living area. the same floor tiles are continued from the living space to the terrace to create a connection between the indoor and outdoor. through the glass wall at the north side, users can enjoy the view from the horizontal line of the thick concrete wall. in essence, the sequence of spaces, using varying qualities of light and volumes, generates a tranquility and a comfortable family home.

FORM builds thick concrete volumes to create the tranquil house in japan
the entrance hall

FORM builds thick concrete volumes to create the tranquil house in japan
view towards the terrace from the hall

FORM builds thick concrete volumes to create the tranquil house in japan
double-height living / dining room

FORM builds thick concrete volumes to create the tranquil house in japan
living / dining room with sidelight

FORM builds thick concrete volumes to create the tranquil house in japan
living / dining room with sidelight

FORM builds thick concrete volumes to create the tranquil house in japan
view towards the hall from the living room

FORM builds thick concrete volumes to create the tranquil house in japan
the living room facing terrace

FORM builds thick concrete volumes to create the tranquil house in japan

view of the landscape to the north beyond freestanding wall

FORM builds thick concrete volumes to create the tranquil house in japan
the walled terrace

 

 

project info:

 

project name: tranquil house

architect: FORM/kouichi kimura architects

location: shiga, japan

client: private

construction year: 2019

site area: 845,69m²

constructed area: 158,65m²

photography: norihito yamauchi, yoshihiro asada

 

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

 

edited by: lynne myers | designboom