future-scape architects: cottage in tsumari

‘cottage in tsumari’ by future-scape architects, tokamachi, nigata, japan images © koji fujii/ nakasa + partners

located within a beech wood park in tokamachi, nigata, japan is ‘cottage in tsumari’, a small vacation home that is available for rent by locals and tourists. designed by tokyo-based practice future-scape architects, the low-cost unit seeks to provide solitude in a region that receives the heaviest snowfall in all of japan.

exterior

derived from the characteristic forms of vernacular architecture, the structure aims to subtly inject itself into the mature context of the area, and the natural environs. conceived as two combined volumes, the dwelling features an internal composition that is disconnected – physically and programmatically – from the exterior shell.

living room with view into bathroom

the essential functions of cottage are contained within a tetras-like arrangement, which is bound by the perimeters

of the outer walls. the meandering cubic form irregularly divides the volume, generating a series of negative voids

and private, unexpected spaces. organized to highlight prominent surrounding views, the contrasting units offer

differentiating experiences and connections to the outdoors.

living room from entrance

slatted wood walls, which look almost temporary in appearance, stand out against the dark black shell, drastically

altering the perception of space. thin gaps between each piece of light wood allow natural light to move throughout

the dwelling, while simultaneously capturing small glimpses of the exterior environment.

view into kitchen

kitchen

kitchen with stairs to sleeping area

sleeping area

in context

floor plan / level 0

floor plan / level 1

longitudinal section

section

elevation

elevation

diagram of volumes and program

prototypes

rendering

project info:

structural engineer: shoichi nagumo (takumi design office) mechanical engineer: masaya uchida (takuetsu corporation) cooperation: hiroyuki kato total site area: 240.20 m2 building area: 52.33 m2 total floor area: 67.48 m2