black cedar and stone flooring adorn minimal residence in japan

the design follows a series of techniques to enhance the sense of spaciousness.

Taichi edited by christina vergopoulou August 5, 2023 3 min

House in Torinoki is designed for Taichi Nishishita’s parents

Taichi Nishishita Architect & Associates takes over the construction of House in Torinoki, a residence for the lead architect’s parents in Iyo City, Japan. The challenge of a small-scale plot leads to the development of a space that exudes depth and security akin to a cave. The result is an environment, carefully accumulating small spatial experiences within a simple yet generous structure, crowned with a single large roof. With a compact total floor area of just under 77 sqm, the integration of the garden, earthen floor, and living, dining, and kitchen areas creates an uncramped sense of space. The essential car space is also generous, as a flowing line from the built-in garage to the entrance via the eaves enhances the sense of spaciousness.

black cedar and stone flooring adorn minimal residence in japan - 1 — all images by Hirokazu Fujimura

the design brings a sense of spaciousness to the small structure

The design team prioritizes rustic, and warm materials, emphasizing quality over quantity throughout the design. The house embodies an exploration of what ‘quality’ truly means for the life in the architect’s parents’ final residence, adding an emotional depth to the project. House in Torinoki exemplifies a fusion of thoughtful design and tender consideration, creating a space that accommodates the users’ needs. The architecture embraces human experiences and brings a sense of profound meaning to living spaces.

black cedar and stone flooring adorn minimal residence in japan - 2 — the design connects the garden with the living areas

black cedar and stone flooring adorn minimal residence in japan - 3 — the developed space exudes depth and security akin to a cave

black cedar and stone flooring adorn minimal residence in japan - 4 — the structure is crowned with a single large roof

black cedar and stone flooring adorn minimal residence in japan - 5 — the house is clad with black-painted cedar

black cedar and stone flooring adorn minimal residence in japan - 6 — the garden displays ashino stone

black cedar and stone flooring adorn minimal residence in japan - 7 — stone flooring covers the indoor and outdoor areas

black cedar and stone flooring adorn minimal residence in japan - 8 — soft filtered sunlight illuminates the living-dining room

timber textures adorns the interior weaved paper screen lets the air come through japanese shoji lets sunlight spread within the structure

project info:

name: House in Torinoki
architect: Taichi Nishishita Architect & Associates

location: Iyo City, Ehime Prefecture, Japan

photography: Hirokazu Fujimura

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