'ynh' by yha architects in tokyo, japan
all images courtesy yha architects
photographer: takeshi yamagishi


japanese atelier yha architects has sent us images of their new project, 'ynh',
a three-storey dwelling in tokyo. influenced by the organization of a scottish tower house,
the design utilizes the services of a multi-level void as a 'light-tube' to sufficiently
illuminate the corner building.



operable windows


located on an intersection with roads to the north and west and neighboring houses
to the south and east, the site initiated a 'fort-like' design. the facade is of an autonomous
color and texture with square apertures punctured on a regular grid system. seemingly a
solid mass, the building lends little to the outside viewer the qualities of the interior.



west elevation



interior lightwell / staircase


butted up against the east wall, a void which houses the staircase extends from the ground floor
to the third, acting as both the main circulation as well as a source of natural daylight.
the square window motif is repeated throughout the interior, creating layers of framed views
that eventually reach the outside. this porous effect creates an open living atmosphere,
simultaneously expanding the relatively small space.



dining room






kitchen



lightwell



view of the dining space from stairs



windows



towards the third level






third level space looking towards the terrace



third level



street view at night






schematic diagram



floor plan / level 0



floor plan / level +1



floor plan / level +2


cross section