’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.

future-scape architects: 44:63 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.

future-scape architects: 44:63 view of alley and street from the entrance

future-scape architects: 44:63 front door

future-scape architects: 44:63 (left) passage and the bedroom to lavatory (right) passage from the lavatory to bedrooms

future-scape architects: 44:63 interior view from entrance

future-scape architects: 44:63 view of lavatory from a bedroom

future-scape architects: 44:63 lavatory and a bedroom beyond

future-scape architects: 44:63 view of lavatory from bedroom

future-scape architects: 44:63 view of courtyard and stairs from bedroom

future-scape architects: 44:63 courtyard separates two ground floor bedrooms

future-scape architects: 44:63 (left) courtyard with bedrooms on each side (right) sky is reflected within floor to ceiling glass windows

future-scape architects: 44:63 stair leading to upper level living spaces and kitchen

future-scape architects: 44:63 kitchen and outward views through courtyard

future-scape architects: 44:63 living room bordered with courtyards

future-scape architects: 44:63 view of courtyard and stairs from the living room

future-scape architects: 44:63 living space and courtyard

future-scape architects: 44:63 living space and stairs leading to roof

future-scape architects: 44:63 view of courtyards from living space

future-scape architects: 44:63 view of living room and courtyard from another courtyard

future-scape architects: 44:63 site plan

future-scape architects: 44:63 floor plan / level 0

future-scape architects: 44:63 floor plan / level 1

future-scape architects: 44:63 roof plan

future-scape architects: 44:63 section

future-scape architects: 44:63 context plan / level 0

future-scape architects: 44:63 context plan /  level 1

future-scape architects: 44:63 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