naoya kawabe architect & associates: house in atsugi

'house in atsugi' by naoya kawabe architect & associates
all images courtesy naoya kawabe architect & associates
photographer: takumi ota


tokyo-based naoya kawabe architect & associates have sent us images of 'house in atsugi',
a two-storey dwelling in a residential neighbourhood of the city in central kanagawa prefecture, japan.
situated on an extremely tight plot on a sloped hill, the design is informed by the shape of the site
and seeks to negotiate an efficient interior space.



street view


nestled into the nook of a hairpin bend in the road, the design employs an upside-down approach
where the entrance is located on the top level instead of the more conventional ground level.
the asymmetrical floor plan accommodates a generous living and dining space that directs
unobstructed views over the neighbourhood to the north. the kitchen stands as a 'pod-like' structure
in the center, with the finishes of the hardwood floor wrapping over its surfaces.



entry


the more private program such as the bedrooms and tatami room is hosted on the lower level.
partially plugged into the grade, the use of thick reinforced concrete is translated to the interior finishes.
to maintain natural daylight and ventilation, a strip of elevated windows run along the north-facing
facades. sliding partitions stand in place of complete wall units in between rooms to keep the house
flexible and spacious.   



kitchen



dining space



lower level



tatami room



night view



main entrance



floor plan / level -1



floor plan / level 0



section



bottom elevation



top elevation