'spline' house's smooth curves frame forest backdrop in osaka

id+fr studio TAKES over residential project in japan

Architectural studio id+fr shapes a curvy family house aiming for an organic relationship with a natural forest scenery in Osaka. Lead designers Daisuke Ibano and Ryosuke Fujii take over the construction of a building located on a residential site developed after the 1970 Osaka Expo’s economic growth but remained empty throughout the years. Directly adjacent to the woods from the west, the triangular plot centers the structure in an L shape with its long side facing the greenery. The house forms two levels with an open terrace and connects to the outdoors from all areas. Reflecting the natural surrounding environment the project follows an organic development in curves and splines throughout the main wooden structure.

all images by ©Yohei Sasakura unless stated otherwise

curved formations of the structure smoothly frame the scenery

The architectural duo plans an L-shaped layout with circulation staircases resolving the height difference of the site that faces the lively community park. The staircase loop in the center of the residence, as well as the flight of steps bridging the outdoor terraces and the central atrium flexibly connect all areas of the ‘Spline’ house. The framework develops through the construction of a keel beam with a strut in the longitudinal direction from the central column. Wood boards are bent and attached to the framework to create the distinct spline formation. A curved wall covers the strut of the keel beam with fluid spline-shaped plates. Curved elements are featured throughout the interior and exterior structure smoothly framing the scenery in a visual connection to nature. The rough-textured curved walls provide a three-dimensional fluidity to the building unifying the design with the surrounding environment.

rough-textured walls and wooden materiality adorn the interior | image by ©Shinkenchiku-sha

spline gates frame the internal structure and views

rough-textured walls shape in spline formations

the wooden structure with rough texture develops curves and splines on the triangular plot

spline house’s long side faces the greenery

project info:

name: Spline House
designer: id+fr – Daisuke Ibano, Ryosuke Fujii

location: Osaka, Japan

photography: Yohei Sasakura – Shinkenchiku-sha

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom