torafu architects: house in kitaoji

‘house in kitaoji’ by torafu architects, kyoto, japan image © daici ano

designed for a client in need of privacy and separation from the outside, japenese firm torafu architect‘s ‘house in kitaoji’ in kyoto holds within a hard shell a warm bright hub for living. a solid outer boundary of exposed concrete gives an almost uninviting and cold characteristic to the dwelling, with few windows connecting the public and private realms. by contrast, the interior program features a softer palette of wood in light-filled spaces with gabled roofs and bedrooms of different ceiling heights.

another special design consideration was the inhabitant’s need for wheelchair accessibility, resulting in a simple plan layout for easy access with an elevator connecting the street level to the upstairs. the main living space is located in the middle of the second storey, eliminating the need for corridors and letting the bedrooms, bathrooms, and auxiliary functions act as buffers between the outside and inside. large flexible volumes make travel between them comfortable and fast. wide doors, hallways and cantilevering counters make an ideal residence for the handicapped.

corner site placement image © daici ano

few windows look to the exterior

image © daici ano

front entrance with wide door for accessibility

image © daici ano

large voids allow light to enter while controlling views

image © daici ano

first floor is open to the outside

image © daici ano

open central courtyard

image © daici ano

elevator entrance

image © daici ano

interior living space

image © daici ano

kitchen and living space

image © daici ano

kitchen on lowered counters

image © daici ano

(left) bedroom open to terrace (right) wide hallway

images © daici ano

bedroom with large door

image © daici ano

view at dusk

image © daici ano