future-scape architects: 44:63

’44:63′ by future-scape architects, yokohama, kanagawa, japan all images © future-scape architects

tokyo-based firm future-scape architects have completed ’44:63′, a single family residence located in yokohama, japan. derived from the local building code, the base floor area of any dwelling may not exceed 44 square meters. containing enough space on the site for a larger structure, the design circumvents this law by incorporating three open air courtyards which occupy an additional 13 square meters into the floor plan providing an increased footprint of 63 square meters. the vertical chasms create a visually spacious configuration without physically expanding the usable interior space.

entrance facade

sited within a dense neighborhood, the home is accessed by an alley leading diagonally between two adjacent structures. upon entering the first floor of the structure, visitors immediately find the private sleeping areas of the home arranged around a central lavatory. three prominent light wells partially bordering the primary hallway and bedrooms allow fresh air to naturally ventilate the spaces through operable glass doors. stairs lead to the upper level living and kitchen spaces which present a strong visual connection to the sky and surrounding urban scenery. the reflective interior surfaces respond to constantly shifting lighting qualities and weather conditions. opportunities to proceed to the outdoor roof terraces continue this experience of isolation within civilization.

view of alley and street from the entrance

front door

(left) passage and the bedroom to lavatory (right) passage from the lavatory to bedrooms

interior view from entrance

view of lavatory from a bedroom

lavatory and a bedroom beyond

view of lavatory from bedroom

view of courtyard and stairs from bedroom

courtyard separates two ground floor bedrooms

(left) courtyard with bedrooms on each side (right) sky is reflected within floor to ceiling glass windows

stair leading to upper level living spaces and kitchen

kitchen and outward views through courtyard

living room bordered with courtyards

view of courtyard and stairs from the living room

living space and courtyard

living space and stairs leading to roof

view of courtyards from living space

view of living room and courtyard from another courtyard

site plan

floor plan / level 0

floor plan / level 1

roof plan

section

context plan / level 0

context plan /  level 1

conceptual diagram

project info:

architect: daigo ishii + future-scape architects structural engineers: oga structural design office

location: yokohama, kanagawa, japan client: parents and child use: house

site area: 113.05m2 building area: 44.80m2 floor area: 90.20m2 completion date: october, 2010

structure: reinforced concrete exterior finish: resin mortar finished with ceramic silicon paint interior finish: floor concrete painted by polyurethane paint wall: reinforced concrete finished with resin mortar and acrylic emulsion paint ceiling: reinforced concrete finished with resin mortar and vinyl paint with high gloss