fujiwaramuro architects: house in hakusan

‘house in hakusan’ by fujiwaramuro architects, ishikawa, japanimage © yano toshiyukiall images courtesy of fujiwaramuro architects

the cube, although seemingly limited in size and spatial potential in reality gives an enormous freedom in the organization of spaces and their relationship to one another. when japanese practice fujiwaramuro architects sat down with the client and their three children, it became clear that a split-level option was preferred, where there was always a connection between the social spaces. the idea of a large central staircase, customary in many homes, is extruded to become a mechanism that is no longer just used in circulation but also becomes a dynamic livable space that links different program.

entrance elevationimage © yano toshiyuki

stretching from the entrance up through the primary living area, the stairs provide a diagonal cut through the entire home that acts as a wind-tunnel when the windows are open, and connect to several levels before ending at the dining table where an extension becomes seating for the children. the living room is located in the middle level maintaining a close relation to the rest of the dwelling, with a linear half-level containing a long work desk overlooking the open central space and feeds into the kids room where a ladder takes them to an even higher loft.

entryimage © yano toshiyuki

a skylight resides within a large central void in the roof that expands the dimensions of the house vertically as well, emphasizing with the stairs the idea of a three-dimensional circulation. the master bedroom and private areas in turn are located on the ground floor in the spaces under the stairs, along with the main bathroom and study that connects back to the mid-level through a smaller staircase.

main staircaseimage © yano toshiyuki