yamamori architect + associates: beach house

‘beach house’ by yamamori architect + associates, shima-city, mie, japan images courtesy of yamamori architect + associates

situated on a secluded bay along the coast of shima-city mie japan, is ‘beach house’ a private vacation home by japanese practice, yamamori architect + associates.

composed of jagged and austere forms, the home looks to immerse itself into the contradictory environment of built and natural contexts, its volume and spatial organization responding to the contrasting elements of both. cut into the landscape, the design relies on elevational differences between the ground, the structure and the interior to define and characterize the building. 

side entrance

informed by a small access road that separates the residence from the water, the dwelling features a complex layering of spaces which locates the main social programs on the highest level with uninterrupted views across the bay. four staggered and partial floors compose the interior volume, each connected by gradual and gentle stairs. concealed binary functions and secondary spaces successfully eliminate visual congestion and generate a dynamic environment which ranges in atmosphere and exposure to the outdoors.

view outwards

a single glazed wall draws natural light and scenery inwards, blending the immediate coastal context with the imposing

geometric structure. opposing angular walls made from rough and pure concrete isolate the dwelling with enclosed and

impermeable surfaces that negate the nearby neighboring units.

overall living space

kitchen, living room and dining room

sitting room

night view

view from the water

floor plan / level 0

floor plan / level 1

elevation

section

section

section

concept sketch

project info:

location: shima-city mie principal use: private house
 site area: 287.34 square meters building area: 79.3 square meters total floor area: 121.03 square meters structural system: reinforced concrete number of stories: 2 stories