'i-cube #03' by rats-architects in usuki, japan
all images courtesy rats-architects


shinji kogo of oita, japan-based firm rats-architects has finished the third dwelling
in his 'i-cube' project, a series of small 'pret-a-porter' houses that pivots around
an interior light court. aptly named 'i-cube #03', this third installment, located in
usuki, japan, features bare facades that are accented with a series of small windows
arranged on a 4 by 4 grid.

with a total floor area of 79.3 m2,  the design of the house aims to provide a maximum
sense of privacy and security while not feeling cramped or blocked in, especially
given the relatively small square footage. the primary source of light and ventilation
is done by an interior light well, which covers a quarter of the total floor space.
this area provides an ample-sized outdoor patio as well as space for the small,
upper level balcony to look out to. while the grid of small windows do not vary in size,
larger apertures are strategically placed around the white-washed lightwell to provide
both natural light and views.  



(left) outdoor patio space and look-out balcony
(right) a framed view


the living and dining space on the second level features a double-height ceiling
which contributes to the sense of the house being larger and open. a mezzanine
above the kitchen accommodates a private washitsu, or japanese-style room,
which opens up to the lightwell with a complete strip of glazing.



living and dining



dining area next to the kitchen



double-height ceiling



(left)
(right) door to lightwell/courtyard


traditional japanese style room on the upper level