takao shiotsuka atelier: 8 building

‘8 building’ by takao shiotsuka atelier in oita city, japan
all images courtesy takao shiotsuka atelier
image © toshiyuki yano

japanese architecture practice takao shiotsuka atelier has sent us images of ‘8building’, a converted
mixed-use building in the urban center of oita-city, japan. situated on a slim site surrounded by adjacent
buildings on three sides, the design seeks to create well-lit, open spaces that exhibit flexibility despite
its small footprint.

site
image © toshiyuki yano

originally a small-scale studio apartment, the thirty year old building has been stripped of its eaves
and veranda to secure large amounts of sunlight for the interior units. windows facing onto adjacent
buildings are frosted to maintain privacy while still maintaining daylight intake. singularly finished in white,
the three-storey structure is quiet and unassuming with a large aperture window on the ground level.
a small gallery space within is put on view, engaging in direct dialogue with the street and the neighbourhood.

street view
image © toshiyuki yano

(left) street elevation
(right) alley
images © toshiyuki yano

gutted of its internal partitions, the layout has been rearranged to accommodate a gallery and office on
the ground floor, two live/work units on the level above, and a penthouse apartment. the organization of
programs are simple and pragmatic with a linear circulation route. much like the exterior, the interior is
finished in white to keep each space neutral and flexible. industrial details of the former building has been
preserved to reveal the previous identity of the project.

interior view of gallery
image © toshiyuki yano