keiichi hayashi architect: lightwell house

‘lightwell house’ by keiichi hayashi architect in kyoto, japan all images courtesy keiichi hayashi architect photographer: yoshiyuki hirai

‘lightwell house’ by japanese architect keiichi hayashi is a two-storey private dwelling in a dense residential neighbourhood of kyoto. located on a sunken site that is cornered by retaining walls to the north and east, the design seeks to create a light-filled living space while still keeping with the local bylaws on height and floor area restrictions.

upper level

singularly treated in a reflective white finish, the interior surfaces maximize on the natural daylighting effect. hollow, pylon-like structures interspersedly pierce through the second floor, acting as light chimneys for the level below. as the upper storey is kept open to eliminate a sense of restriction to the already tight floor area, the pylons provide loose definition to the connected space, generating private nooks and functional wall units. an internal terrace is fronted by wide operable windows which allow the inhabitants to use the area for hanging laundry.

though limited by neighbouring reinforced walls, the design makes most of the small plot by creating a private outdoor space in the dug out space. the dining room can be extended to this area by sliding glass doors.

interior terrace

(left) study nook (right) sleeping area

view of the light chimneys from the ground floor

kitchen

dining area

outdoor space to the back

night view

longitudinal section

cross section

project info: site area: 111.67 m2 building area: 45.58 m2 total floor area: 89.28 m2 storeys: 2 structure: wooden, partly reinforced concrete structrual engineer: satoru shimoyama / shimoyama structure office