‘hut’ by koji kakiuchi / yaomitsu designing department in nara, japan all images courtesy koji kakiuchi / yaomitsu designing department
japanese practice koji kakiuchi / yaomitsu designing department has completed ‘hut’, a small elevated shelter on a slope of a forest in nara, japan. exploring the elements of a torri corridor – a traditional gateway to a shrine – the design utilizes a rhythmic composition of pillars and beams to create a simple space that connects the inhabitant with the forest.
exterior view
jutting out of a dramatic decline in the topography, the 8.31m2 hut is a tapering rectangular form clad in vertical-running charred timber panels. the structure is surrounded by a collection of grown trees which camouflages its presence from the street. in the approach, the structure gives the illusion of being on a foundation, floating just above the higher part of the land. access to the hut is provided by a ladder that leads up to a small hatch in the floor.
street facade
view from under the hut
mimicking the elements of a torri corridor, the hut is constructed with a repetitive frame that has been raised off the ground with braces. the interior is completely finished with japanese cedar boards, and is simply divided into two zones – a room and a sheltered outdoor terrace. the single-sloped roof funnels both the space and views toward the forest, establishing visual gravity to the lush site.
views of the outdoor terrace
hatch
(left) interior view (right) within context
view from the street
a torri corridor
schematic models of the process
physical model
section and plan
during construction
project info:
site area: 445.64 m2 total floor area: 8.31 m2
structural engineer: satoru shimoyama
