koji kakiuchi: hut

‘hut’ by koji kakiuchi / yaomitsu designing department in nara, japan all images courtesy koji kakiuchi / yaomitsu designing department

japanese practice koji kakiuchi / yaomitsu designing department has completed ‘hut’, a small elevated shelter on a slope of a forest in nara, japan. exploring the elements of a torri corridor – a traditional gateway to a shrine – the design utilizes a rhythmic composition of pillars and beams to create a simple space that connects the inhabitant with the forest.

exterior view

jutting out of a dramatic decline in the topography, the 8.31m2 hut is a tapering rectangular form clad in vertical-running charred timber panels. the structure is surrounded by a collection of grown trees which camouflages its presence from the street. in the approach, the structure gives the illusion of being on a foundation, floating just above the higher part of the land. access to the hut is provided by a ladder that leads up to a small hatch in the floor.

street facade

view from under the hut

mimicking the elements of a torri corridor, the hut is constructed with a repetitive frame that has been raised off the ground with braces. the interior is completely finished with japanese cedar boards, and is simply divided into two zones – a room and a sheltered outdoor terrace. the single-sloped roof funnels both the space and views toward the forest, establishing visual gravity to the lush site.

views of the outdoor terrace