TOFU architects: H house

‘H-house’ by TOFU architects, shiga, japan  all images courtesy of TOFU architects 

osaka-based architecture firm TOFU, has designed a three story complex consisting of a ground floor restaurant and two levels of residential spaces. located in shiga, japan, the building faces the hikone castle, a historical landmark which dates back to the edo period. to take advantage of the view, a continuous concrete custom built staircase wraps around the exterior of the structure, turning into a large terrace.

the ground floor café has a textured façade constructed from sheets of metal, while the residence is made from precast concrete. a tin roof visually ties back to the first level. the variety of the materials separate the functions found on the interior. the ground floor is zuhirõ jr. café, a chinese style eatery managed by the residents upstairs. the interior spaces integrate concrete and an a polished OSB plywood. the contrast between the gray and warm wood, combined with white interior fixtures create a modern but warm space.

side facade

view from above 

functions divided by floor 

night view of entrance to residences 

entrance into restaurant 

back terrace 

interior view of top level

plywood mezzanine 

interior of first level

restaurant at ground level 

rendering of façade

  floor plan / level 0

floor plan / level 1

floor plan / level 2 1 kitchen 2 living & dining room 3 japanese style room 4 entrance 5 water closet 6 power room 7 bathroom 8 bedroom 9 balcony 

sectional elevation

section

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