
first image
'coupled house' by naoi architecture & design office, tokyo, japan
image © hiroshi ueda
all images courtesy of naoi architecture & design office
the 'coupled house' by japanese firm naoi architecture & design office is a contemporary extension of the traditional dwellings, located in a
quiet residential area outside of tokyo. the home exercises an extensive use of the 'ma' - or empty space - that is used in dense urban settings
to combat the feel of claustrophobia. the small home is therefore designed with careful attention to the relationship of the gaps, connecting
different levels and programmatic elements that open the interior while allowing a free flow of light and circulation through the rooms.
the timber frame structure is left exposed, adding to the variety of wooden textures present throughout, highlighted by the stark white walls
and ceiling elements. the central atrium section contains the bulk of the circulation functions and services the program that develops on either
side. exterior balconies are also integrated within the rooms to ensure that the owners have a balanced experience with interior and exterior living.

(left) entry
(right) central corridor and vertical circulation
image © hiroshi ueda

(left) stairs
(right) dining area
image © hiroshi ueda

large doors connect or separate spaces
image © hiroshi ueda

tatami room
image © hiroshi ueda

ample use of the 'ma' allows plenty of illumination
image © hiroshi ueda

kitchen and dining
image © hiroshi ueda

image © hiroshi ueda

image © hiroshi ueda

connections to the exterior program
image © hiroshi ueda

decks and balconies offer exterior areas
image © hiroshi ueda

image © hiroshi ueda

image © hiroshi ueda

image © hiroshi ueda
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floor plan / level 0

floor plan / level 1

ventilation and day-lighting diagram
nice work, good finishings