'anjou house' by kitokino architecture

‘anjou house’ by kitokino architecture

In the suburbs of Japan, kitokino architecture has completed ‘Anjou House’ for a couple and their three children. Combining wood, corrugated light-gray facades, and a sculptural rooftop, the 146 sqm residence sits in balanced contrast with its surroundings, populated mostly by subdued and semi-traditional apartment buildings. The architects emphasized the modern aesthetic here with an asymmetrical distribution of openings across all four elevations, creating a refreshing visual experience at night when interior lighting beams to life and pours out of the house.

all images © Ookura Hideki / Kurome Photo Studio

three-part dwelling with a gentle indoor living spirit

For ‘Anjou House,’ kitokino architecture (see more here) planned to divide the entire volume into three parts so as not to deviate from the scale of the surrounding residential area. Regarding the interiors, the team coated most of the surfaces with warm-toned wood, supported by a white backdrop to stimulate visual ‘lightness’ and a gentle living spirit wherever the family chooses to sit, sleep, eat, or gather.

While unity was pivotal to the design, the architects still endowed each space with individuality by creating gentle alterations to the finishing. Complementing the warm-toned aesthetic is a series of ‘secret bases’ throughout the house where the three children can nestle.

In line with most Japanese homes, the furniture was kept simple to avoid overcrowding and maintain a balanced living environment. That said, kitokino architecture distributed the furniture in such a way that allows owners to study, play, and relax wherever they may be inside the house — especially in their favorite spots.

‘Anjou House’ entrance

kitokino architecture has built and completed the residential project earlier this year, in February 2022, in collaboration with architect Ayaki Noumi for the overall design, Hakoya Co., Ltd. for construction, and Eda Shingo Horiguchi for the outdoor landscaping.

The studio is a multi-award-winning practice, praised for its refreshing take on detached houses, condominium renovation, and commercial/healthcare facilities.

warm-toned wood populates the interiors