kumiko inui conceals house O’s interior with folded façade

kumiko inui conceals house O’s interior with folded façade 
all images © office of kumiko inui

located in central tokyo, ‘house o’ is a minimal residence designed by locally-based studio kumiko inui. the context itself is based in a neighborhood of mixed typologies including small factories, offices, homes; all co-existing together without any consistent harmony. therefore, the architects sought to develop a residence that established a feeling of unconfined freedom.

living space is oriented towards the open-air patio

the structure of the dwelling is composed of two elements: its simple box structure and a folded roof that forms an angular light well. the garden is situated on the south side which is orientated towards a parking lot and supermarket. ‘I was worried that the garden would lack serenity. therefore, I divided the garden into several parts and distributed them around and inside the house. in order for sufficient light to enter to each outdoor space, I gave the house the same shape as its shadow.’ comments architect kumiko inui.

view of the south facing garden from the living room

the stark white facade displays no windows into its interior- promoting privacy for the inhabitants.stairs lead upwards to the home’s living and cooking spaces. theangularity of the roof is emphasised by the timber roof beams.

furthermore, the interiors are organized around the open air patio, inviting views and light through the deep skylights and floor-to-ceiling glazing. this was the result of the design team studying the dwelling’s sunlight path, making sure the building capitalizes on a constant source of natural light. 

view of the study room and kitchen from the living room

the angled ceilings are highlighted by the timber roof beams

the scheme is located in a densely populated suburb of tokyo