masaru takahashi clads family house 'G' in charred wood exterior in japan

masaru takahashi architectural design office has renovated a wooden house for a four-member family in oji, a town in nara prefecture, japan. the two-story residence is clad in a charred wood exterior, complemented by cypress wood details such as the upper-level balcony, and the beams supporting the overhanging eaves of the roof. these eaves extend over the balcony, offering shelter from the elements and transforming it into a semi-indoor room where common living activities take place. 

images by matsumura yoshiharu

masaru takahashi architectural design office has placed private areas such as bedrooms on the ground level of G house, while common living activities occupy an open-plan space on the upper floor. one large room on the ground floor sleeps the entire family for now. in the future, when the children grow up, this room is designed to be divided into three separate bedrooms.

the upper level of the 137.80 sqm residence is the center of everyday life and encloses a wide open space where the kitchen and living room are located. there, the south-facing balcony allows plenty of natural light to enter the interior, while it remains sheltered under the extending eaves of the roof. these eaves are supported by large wooden beams on the south and north sides, while they also create a shelter outdoor space on the front side, where the entrance, a porch and a parking space are located.

project info:

name: G house

architect: masaru takahashi architectural design office

location: oji-cho, kitakatsuragi district, nara prefecture, japan

total floor area: 137.80 m2