a house at a crossroad in kobe, japan

 

peacefully sitting on a crossroad within the city of kobe in hyogo, japan, this private residence by yasuda koichi laboratory and yasuda atelier adopts a  distinctive shape that resembles the hull of a boat. the structure with the unexpected volumetry is designed to fit into the sloping terrain and follow the fork of the road, blending efficiently into its urban surroundings. although narrow on the outside, the residence generates open interiors with ample storage space, ensuring comfort and convenience for the residents. 

this private residence in kobe, japan, is shaped like a boat hull

all images by mamoru ishiguro

 

 

a boat hull that’s broken in half

 

designed by yasuda koichi laboratory (find more here) and yasuda atelier(find more here), the residence is shaped like the hull of a boat —  one that breaks in half to follow two different routes, since it settles right on top of an intersection. the form follows the junction of the road, creating an interesting overall shape, as well as surprising indoor spaces. 

 

since it’s built on a sloping road, the home presents itself as an impressively narrow and tall structure. however, the interiors are large, spacious, and extroverted, opening towards the outside. at the front of the house where the space is limited, a spiral staircase ushers occupants to the upper floors. towards the back of the house, the space expands and opens up. at night, surrounding reflections make the white color of the exterior look more like a metallic grey, enhancing the ship-like appearance of the dwelling and making the residents feel as if they are about to set sail.

this private residence in kobe, japan, is shaped like a boat hull

this private residence in kobe, japan, is shaped like a boat hull this private residence in kobe, japan, is shaped like a boat hull

this private residence in kobe, japan, is shaped like a boat hull this private residence in kobe, japan, is shaped like a boat hull

 

 

project info: 

 

name: house in mikage-yamate
architects: yasuda koichi laboratory, yasuda atelier

design team: koichi yasuda, akihiro kitada, and tomohito naito
design cooperation: haruka sumi, hiroki sugino, and takao hosoya 
structural engineer: kanebako structural engineers
HVAC engineering: ES associates
location: kobe-city, hyogo
site area: 90.25 sqm
building area: 27.87 sqm
gross floor area: 99.91 sqm
photography: mamoru ishiguro