future-scape: 44:63

'44:63' by future-scape architects, yokohama, kanagawa, japan
all images © future-scape architects


tokyo-based firm future-scape architects have completed '44:63', a single family residence located in yokohama, japan.
derived from the local building code, the base floor area of any dwelling may not exceed 44 square meters. containing enough space
on the site for a larger structure, the design circumvents this law by incorporating three open air courtyards which occupy an
additional 13 square meters into the floor plan providing an increased footprint of 63 square meters. the vertical chasms create
a visually spacious configuration without physically expanding the usable interior space.



entrance facade


sited within a dense neighborhood, the home is accessed by an alley leading diagonally between two adjacent structures.
upon entering the first floor of the structure, visitors immediately find the private sleeping areas of the home arranged
around a central lavatory. three prominent light wells partially bordering the primary hallway and bedrooms allow fresh air
to naturally ventilate the spaces through operable glass doors. stairs lead to the upper level living and kitchen spaces which
present a strong visual connection to the sky and surrounding urban scenery. the reflective interior surfaces respond to constantly
shifting lighting qualities and weather conditions. opportunities to proceed to the outdoor roof terraces continue this experience
of isolation within civilization.



view of alley and street from the entrance



front door



(left) passage and the bedroom to lavatory
(right) passage from the lavatory to bedrooms



interior view from entrance



view of lavatory from a bedroom



lavatory and a bedroom beyond



view of lavatory from bedroom



view of courtyard and stairs from bedroom



courtyard separates two ground floor bedrooms



(left) courtyard with bedrooms on each side
(right) sky is reflected within floor to ceiling glass windows



stair leading to upper level living spaces and kitchen



kitchen and outward views through courtyard



living room bordered with courtyards



view of courtyard and stairs from the living room



living space and courtyard



living space and stairs leading to roof



view of courtyards from living space



view of living room and courtyard from another courtyard



site plan



floor plan / level 0



floor plan / level 1



roof plan



section



context plan / level 0



context plan /  level 1



conceptual diagram


project info:


architect: daigo ishii + future-scape architects
structural engineers: oga structural design office

location: yokohama, kanagawa, japan
client: parents and child
use: house

site area: 113.05m2
building area: 44.80m2
floor area: 90.20m2
completion date: october, 2010

structure: reinforced concrete
exterior finish: resin mortar finished with ceramic silicon paint
interior finish: floor concrete painted by polyurethane paint
wall: reinforced concrete finished with resin mortar and acrylic emulsion paint
ceiling: reinforced concrete finished with resin mortar and vinyl paint with high gloss