mamm design renovates japanese apartment with gently curving walls
photography by takumi ota

 

 

 

this renovation of a apartment unit in the japanese prefecture of kanagawa has been completed by mamm design for a mother and her two daughters. the previously existing layout, which had been in place for more than 30 years, featured a very rigid arrangement with the kitchen separated from the rest of the dwelling — limiting communication among the home’s residents.

mamm design renovation in sagami-ono kanagawa japan designboom
the communal family room sits at the heart of the plan

 

 

 

the first step was to remove most of the existing partitions, with exception of the bathroom, to create one open space. next, three gently curving walls were installed with an upper clearance gap of 20 centimeters in relation to the ceiling. the partitions create a variety of secluded spaces for each member of the family, while carefully positioned apertures connect each volume. during the night, lights positioned along the wall’s upper surface reflect on the ceiling, further accentuating the home’s new spatial characteristics.

mamm design renovation in sagami-ono kanagawa japan designboom
carefully positioned apertures connect each area of the home

mamm design renovation in sagami-ono kanagawa japan designboom
the living space adjoins a kitchen

mamm design renovation in sagami-ono kanagawa japan designboom
the three curving partitions stop short of extending to the ceiling

mamm design renovation in sagami-ono kanagawa japan designboom
sightlines are established from the kitchen to the lounge

mamm design renovation in sagami-ono kanagawa japan designboom
the view from the kitchen

mamm design renovation in sagami-ono kanagawa japan designboom
the nature of each space is determined by how it is occupied throughout the day

mamm design renovation in sagami-ono kanagawa japan designboom
the partitions create a variety of secluded spaces for each member of the family

mamm design renovation in sagami-ono kanagawa japan designboom
a doorway leads to one of the home’s bedrooms

mamm design renovation in sagami-ono kanagawa japan designboom

 

 

project info:

 

location: kanagawa, japan
architect: mamm design
lighting designer: lightdesign
photography: takumi ota