'house in waga-zaimokuza' by architect cafe in japan
all images courtesy architect cafe


japanese practice architect cafe has sent us images of 'house in waga-zaimokuza',
a two and a half storey dwelling in a densely populated neighbourhood of japan.
seeking to provide a generous living space despite the small lot, the house features
an elevated outdoor garden that opens up the living and dining space.



street facade


characterized by a transparent street face, the design treats the interior space as if it were
a stage complete with a system of curtains that can be drawn from two-levels up.
the main form of circulation - a centrally placed spiral staircase - is on display and
can be  clearly viewed from the street. the interior expression is singularly done in
exposed plywood with concrete and wooden flooring.



(left) night view
(right) interior view


a second, mezzanine level overlooks the main space and features a catwalk that circumscribes
the void area, providing access for the occupants to open the glazed walls. the kitchen,
dining and living space is accommodated on the upper storey and offers maximum privacy
from the street. cantilevering slightly over the front, the top volume opens up to an outdoor yard
to the back. from there, an addition set of steel stairs lead up to an expansive roof top terrace.



from ground level



use of plywood



looking out towards outdoor green space



looking into kitchen



street view



floor plan / level 0



ground floor / level +0.5



floor plan / level +1



longitudinal section



long elevation


front elevation



back elevation