SUWA architects + engineers: 533house

'533house' by SUWA architects + engineers in nagano, japan
all images courtesy SUWA architects + engineers
image © daisuke sanada


tokyo-based practice SUWA architects + engineers has shared with us images of '533house',
a single-storey private residence in a cold region of nagano prefecture, japan. seeking to create
a living space which mostly operates through natural means, the design features an inclined
southern facade that lets in sunlight during the winter while facilitating natural ventilation
during the summer.



exterior view from garden
image © daisuke sanada


situated on a corner plot with a generous front garden, the linear structure lies slim and low to
the ground. the slightly sloped elevation faces inwards away from the street to ensure a level of
privacy for the inhabitants. an extension of the interior space, a concrete slab running perpendicular
to the layout serves as an outdoor terrace next to a set of large glass doors. during the hotter days of
the year, an awning keeps this space shaded and cool.



street view
image © daisuke sanada



south facade
image © kaoru ijima



outdoor terrace
image © kaoru ijima


subtly raised to result in an inclined roof, the interior is punctuated by sections of exposed ceiling
with structural wooden columns. the south-facing windows draw in a large amount of sunlight
which is then stored in the concrete foundation to keep the house warm during the evening.
elevated windows which run along the north facade provide additional natural light and views of
the immediate site.



(left) awning over outdoor terrace
image © kaoru ijima
(right) interior hallway
image © daisuke sanada



interior view of living space
image © kaoru ijima



view of outdoor terrace from kitchen
image © daisuke sanada



sunlight intake through windows
image © kaoru ijima



view from bedroom
image © kaoru ijima



washroom
image © kaoru ijima



site plan



floor plan



south elevation



section


project info:

site area: 463.12 m2
building area: 94.40 m2
total floor area: 92.16 m2
structure: wood frame

structural engineer: nawakenjim
construction: maruwa kensetsu