steam architect and associates completes house in tokyo with bright, free-flowing interior

tucked in a dense block of a residential neighborhood in tokyo, this house by steam architect and associates is designed as an open living environment for its occupants. though its flag pole-shaped site does not allow for much exterior space, the two-story dwelling is bathed in natural light thanks to a series of strategically-placed openings on the walls and roof of the building. 

all images by nakano yukihide / skylab

steam architect and associates has set the house in a challenging site, located within a dense residential block of tokyo’s kita city. the building comprises two intersecting box-shaped volumes, while two small outdoor terraces take up the rest of the site area. inside, the space is characterized by open-plan zones, where different functions blend into one another to create a relaxed, fluid atmosphere. with the exception of the upper level, there are almost no walls inside the house. upstairs, the walls that divide the space are complete with curved openings, which enhance the interconnectivity of the interior.

the wooden house is complete with floor-to-ceiling openings on most of its walls, while a skylight brings in additional natural light inside. all common living areas, including the kitchen, dining and living rooms, are located on the ground level, together with the owner’s bedroom. the upper floor contains a working space, complete with various libraries and storage spaces.

project info:

architect: steam architect and associates

site area: 104 m2

total floor area: 79 m2

structure: traditional wooden

location: kita-ku, tokyo, japan