TAKiBI's 'sunlight house' in japan connects two volumes with a central courtyard

the japanese architectural practice, TAKiBI, has designed the ‘sunlight house‘ situated in the nikko area of the tochigi prefecture. the house has been developed for a family of four and has been constructed on a deep roadside site. the plan is based on the repetition of timber columns built on a 2.73 m × 2.73 m grid, but with the addition of a sloped roof plane to create a change in volume and spatial experiences. 

all images © koji fujii

the shape of the house has been designed by TAKiBI in order to efficiently capture sunlight and wind flow into the spaces. the resulting form is based on the analysis of surrounding buildings in the area, weather conditions (solar radiation angle and wind direction of the seasonal wind). by considering this research, angled planes have been incorporated to create a large open volume for the family to gather in the kitchen-dining space, and also a smaller service space with flat roof. the project also includes a large central courtyard, inviting a connection from nature into the interior spaces. 

in response to the severe cold weather experienced in the nikko area, the entire building, including the foundations, is insulated to a high level. the structure uses timber in the walls and roofs, which is also exposed in the interior, creating a very honest architectural approach. the exterior is clad in corrugated metal, making for a modest external appearance. in essence, the design of the ‘sunlight house’ by TAKiBI results in a thoughtful yet simple home.

project info:

project name: ‘sunlight house’

architect: TAKiBI

location: nikko, tochigi prefecture, japan

total floor area: 1636 ft2 (152 m2)

year: 2018

photography: koji fujii