apollo architects and associates: neut - house for an ophthalmologist
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'neut' by apollo architects and associates, suginami ward, tokyo, japan
image © masao nishikawa
image courtesy of apollo architects and associates
a narrow and deep parcel of land in a quiet tokyo neighborhood has been fitted with a brilliantly light-filled, apollo architecture-designed dwelling
characterized by glazed gables and superior sound insulation. 'neut' is a home that that uses its architecture to transcend the limits of the site,
expanding vertically toward the sky and burrowing into the ground. on the basement level, reinforced concrete creates a sound barrier chamber for
listening to music-- a programmatic priority for the ophthalmologist clients. this below-grade studio is further buffered and made exceptionally
inhabitable by the beginnings of a glazed courtyard that graduates into a full-sized atrium, inextricably linking the three floors with light. the gabled
chambers diffuse light throughout the space, especially to the upper floor kitchen, living and balcony area. variously sized horizontal wooden louvers
create a screen that allows for ventilation and distinguishes the cantilevered terrace on the minimalistic facade. ample clerestories are present throughout
the bedrooms and bathroom and serve to create the appearance of airy and continuous space. stitched together with the vertical spine of stairway
circulation, the home expands its lateral limits with the amplifying power of visually open space.
the top floor is characterized by punctured gabling
image © masao nishikawa
the glazed chambers fill the room with sky and light
image © masao nishikawa
kitchen view
image © masao nishikawa
the narrow space is dematerialized with strategic expanses of glazing
image © masao nishikawa
a view from the outdoor balcony toward the kitchen
image © masao nishikawa
a wooden screen provides private outdoor seating and allows interior light
image © masao nishikawa
(left): a niew of the narrow space
(right): diffused light techniques in the kitchen
image © masao nishikawa
a central stair leads from the top floor to an equally compelling second floor
image © masao nishikawa
the inner courtyard seemingly amplifies the dimensions of the space
image © masao nishikawa
stair treads are in keep with the minimalist motif
image © masao nishikawa
view up through the glazed gable
image © masao nishikawa
'dusk views of the pervasive atrium
image © masao nishikawa
after the sun sets, interiors take on a different light
image © masao nishikawa
artificial lighting is consistent with the diffuses technique
image © masao nishikawa
the music room at the basement level is made both habitable and insulated by the double-glazed courtyard
image © masao nishikawa
exterior views show the concrete and wood tectonics working harmoniously
image © masao nishikawa
This was a surprise. I liked the minimalist exterior but I am so used to seeing this kind of treatment applied to homes shown on Designboom. I was really surprised when I looked inside though. It is truly lovely. All the privacy one would expect in this style of home but without the closed in feeling that seems so unavoidable. It is bright, intriguing, fresh and warm. The reflected illumination of the ceiling at night is lovely. Congratulations and thanks for sharing this.
I would have enjoyed seeing the floor plans!
This is INCREDIBLE.