taku sakaushi / OFDA: corner windows

‘corner windows’ by taku sakaushi all images courtesy taku sakaushi / OFDA

‘corner windows’ by japanese architect taku sakaushi / OFDA is a u-shaped, two-storey private house on a sloped site in japan. utilizing the shape and form of the plot as the source of the design, the dwelling curves around to encapsulate an outdoor courtyard that is tucked away from the street.

exterior view

hugging the street line to create the curve of the u, the design stands as a solid volume on the intersection of the neighbourhood. because of the sloped natre of the site, the neighbouring houses have resolved to building high retaining walls to create a flat surface. ‘corner windows’ takes advantage of this feature by utilizing the existing barriers as a ‘fence’, generating a private pocket for the courtyard. opening up in the direction of this space, the interior benefits from abundant natural lighting as well as connects the residents to the outdoor. 

courtyard

the main communal space is accommodated on the ground floor in an open and curved fashion. floating above the area is a seemingly inserted volume that holds the children’s room. slim cuts in the volume connects the suspended level visually to the rest of the house. the surfaces of the interior is finished in a warm, wood palette, lending the space a contrasting character from the exterior expression.

interior view

(left) courtyard to the left (right) up to the children’s room

view from the kitchen

living room

(left) double-height space (right) living area

master bedroom

(left) bathroom (right) ceiling of study

window from children’s room

courtyard at night

night view

architect’s sketch

axonometric drawing

floor plan / level 0

floor plan / level +1

floor plan / level +2

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