overlapping gable roofs afford openness for 'leading house' by FORM / kouichi kimura

‘Leading House’ by FORM Kouichi Kimura Architects

‘Leading House’ by FORM / Kouichi Kimura Architects takes shape as a residential project in Japan, designed for a cat lover. Settled on a historical road, recognized as one of the old Five Routes, which used to be busy and crowded with many merchants and travelers, the plot captures pleasant mountain views in the distance. The design team sought to form a building that evokes an image of a traditional house, all the while embracing a contemporary lifestyle. This ambition is achieved with a dynamic configuration of overlapping gable roofs and multiple cutouts that generates a lively flux of light.

all images by Kenta Kawamura

AN INTIMATE OPEN layout

Drawing from its historical location, the house seeks to combine traditional elements within a modern configuration. The play between the overlapping gable roofs shapes a vivid internal space profile where tranquility and openness dominate. The interior hosts three levels creating a circular flow and visual connection throughout the spaces. The architects opted for a series of high-side windows following the roof’s slope letting additional natural light and views flood the interior without compromising the privacy of the owners.  

Moreover, a high wall blocks views from passers-by and neighbors and also serves as ‘a sundial that casts dappled shade, which moves and changes in accordance with lights,’ as FORM / Kouichi Kimura mentioned. ‘It blends in with the space, creating a sequence that adds to the habitable space the peaceful and uplifting feeling as well as the extraordinary atmosphere.’

the location is endowed with a nice mountain view in the distance

the interior is filled with serenity and openness

ample light comes through the high side window, which is provided in accordance with the roof slope

there is a visual communication between the multiple spaces

the high wall blocks visibility from the passersby

green pops add to the sense of privacy

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project info:

name: Leading House
architects: FORM/Kouichi Kimura Architects | @form.kouichi_kimura.architec

location: Shiga, Japan
construction year: 2022
site area: 343,39 sqm
total floor area: 226,39 sqm

photography: Kenta Kawamura