kazuyo sejima unifies nishinoyama house in kyoto, japan

kazuyo sejima of SANAA has developed ‘nishinoyama house’ a residential complex located in a suburban area of kyoto, japan. the scheme is characterized by its unifying structure which holistically connects the ten properties, creating a series of internal gardens and alleyways. the overarching canopy comprises 21 individually pitched roofs, which reference the scale and size of neighboring homes – a modern approach which simultaneously echoes vernacular typologies.

all images courtesy of enzo garden

scattered along the sloped site, the units are linked by external circulation routes which offer glimpses into private residences. the dwellings feature a range of living accommodation, with some properties comprising a series of interconnected rooms, while others are more detached, oriented around a central courtyard.

external circulation routes which offer glimpses of private residences

each room differs with regard to dimensions and proportions, with attic-type rooms with low ceilings directly contrasting more spaciously scaled enclosures. the variation of the scheme is continued to external areas, where street adjacent gardens are open to the public and more private yards are obscured from view.

all areas of the design have multiple sources of light and ventilation

all areas of the design have multiple sources of light and ventilation, ensuring a pleasant and hospitable living environment. ‘nishinoyama house’ encourages positive relationships to be formed between its inhabitants, establishing a communal and neighborly atmosphere.

internal spaces are fluidly connected

the scheme’s modern approach simultaneously echoes vernacular typologies

internal spaces frame views of the surrounding natural environment

visual highlighting the scheme’s twenty-one pitched roofs

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