HYAD architects build home in world’s snowiest region

HYAD architects build home in world’s snowiest region
all images courtesy of hyad architects

‘house in nakafujishima’, by japanese firm hyad architects is located in the hokuriku region of japan, renowned for its harsh natural environment, it is the snowiest inhabited area in the world. situated at the southernmost tip of this rural landscape, the building harmoniously features beautiful, yet rugged views. blending different elements together the site consists of two residential houses – the old one and its newly built counterpart. a courtyard links the two dwellings and provides sunlight and breeze in. the structure is in the shape of a parallelogram, accentuating the southward views – it also establishes a clear connection between the existing house and the courtyard. each floor space has a buffer area that surrounds the living space – traditionally known as a ‘yukigakoi’ – a shelter that protected the houses in japan from heavy snowfall. here, it enables an easy adjustment of light, heat, air and sound environment. an air passage of 250mm also exists beneath the ceiling where the installation of louvers and ventilators at the corners, increases circulation and efficiency. large windows on the west side of each floor function as a sun-room and also help to maintain a close connection with the old house and the courtyard.

house in nakafujishima viewed from west

built in the shape of a parallelogram there is a clear link between the existing house and the courtyard

living room, and japanese-style room as viewed from kitchen

each floor space has a buffer area that surrounds the living space – traditionally known as a ‘yukigakoi’

southward view

large windows on the west side of each floor function as a sun-room

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