apollo architects and associates: lift
‘left’ by apollo architects and associates, sendai, japan
images courtesy of masao nishikawa

apollo architects and associates has completed ‘lift’, a single family home located in the
residential district of downtown sendai, japan. characterized by seamless geometric volumes
and an impenetrable facade, the design features a protruding upper floor and a plan that centers
around an internal courtyard.

apollo architects and associates: lift
parking for two cars in located under the cantilevered structure

conceived as a single, continuous space filled with natural light, the second floor – housing the
principal living spaces – provides unobstructed sight-lines that open on to a private terrace.
located between the front facade and the residence, the deck creates a transitional atmosphere
between the two environments. dark louvers on the slanted facade act as a shield to the residence,
providing views outwards but not in. light and cross ventilation that filter through the wooden
slats penetrate the home, reducing the amount of windows required on walls that face neighboring
structures. 

apollo architects and associates: lift
exterior facade

a central courtyard separates private and public functions of each floor. opening onto the sky,
the cubic volume contains maple trees and other vegetation that aim to create a tranquility
within the urban residence. using natural materials such as wood and tatami mats, the home
focuses on elements borrowed from the introduced landscape.

apollo architects and associates: lift
behind the slanted louver facade

apollo architects and associates: lift
looking towards the private terrace located between the house and the facade

bedrooms and other small rooms compose the ground floor, breaking the long and narrow space
into a series of private and enclosed environments.

apollo architects and associates: lift
kitchen

apollo architects and associates: lift
looking towards the courtyard from kitchen and living room

apollo architects and associates: lift
courtyard

apollo architects and associates: lift
courtyard and hallway

apollo architects and associates: lift
lower level

apollo architects and associates: lift
lower level


apollo architects and associates: lift
night shot