
first image
'ogikubo house' by MDS, suginami-ku, tokyo, japan
image © toshiyuki yano
all images courtesy of MDS
completed by japanese firm MDS, the 'ogikubo house' continues the practice's study in expanding the design palette for the limited and therefore
expensive land resource of the densely developed city of tokyo. in the quiet residential area of suginami-ku, the dwelling divides into three volumes
that are interconnected with a glass-enclosed stairwell. the tri-part plan breaks from a pattern of monolithic and hermetic structures that excludes
exterior spaces by imparting a feeling of openness at its core. the concept of 'ma', or 'gap,' is an important element in japanese space creation was
a driving factor in the area appropriated for the vertical circulation.
apertures within the walls of rooms allow activity to spill between the staggered floors. on the first floor, framed views between the living room,
dining area and bedroom link the interactions of inhabitants. periphery garden spaces and the street are maintained the urban landscape
within the internal atmosphere. the changing of seasons may be experienced while passing between rooms.

garage entry from alley
image © toshiyuki yano

(left) front elevation
(right) foyer
images © toshiyuki yano

(left) stairs to living room (right) view to garage from basement
images © toshiyuki yano

view from the living room
image © toshiyuki yano

living room
image © toshiyuki yano

living room
image © toshiyuki yano

bedroom
image © toshiyuki yano

dining area
image © toshiyuki yano

enclosure around the stairway
image © toshiyuki yano

dining area at dusk
image © toshiyuki yano

stairs at night
image © toshiyuki yano

exterior of glass stairwell
image © toshiyuki yano

front door
image © toshiyuki yano

exterior at night
image © toshiyuki yano

floor plan / level 0

floor plan / level 1

floor plan / level 2

floor plan / level -1

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project info:
architecture: kiyotoshi mori & natsuko kawamura / mds
photography: toshiyuki yano
location: suginami-ku, tokyo
date of completion: 2009
principal use: residence
structure: wood
site area: 118.00m2
total floor area: 117.18m2 (57.80 m2/1f, 55.23 m2/2f, 23.72 m2/b1f)
exterior finish: plastered wall
roof: FRP
floor: oak flooring
wall: plastered wall