KINO architects: airhole house

‘airhole house’ by KINO architects in shiga, japan photography by daici anoall images courtesy KINO architects

‘airhole house’ by masahiro kinoshita of tokyo-based KINO architects is a two-storey private residence in shiga, japan. true to its name, the design features large volumetric void on both levels that facilitate natural cross ventilation while serving a functional purpose.

street elevation

located on a corner plot in a residential area, the main form of the house was dictated by the shape of the site. on the street level, a covered parking spot is generated by  carving out an airhole that opens up east to west. the main entrance is also provided through this space. more predominantly noticeable from the main street to the south is the asymmetrical roof line and terrace space on the second level. funneled in form, the open volume accommodates the outdoor veranda and the living/dining/kitchen area. the west wall offers storage while the pie-shaped space to the east houses the staircase, bathroom and washitsu (or japanese-style room).

street view

covered garage

looking towards the terrace

dining room and kitchen

terrace door

(left) on terrace (right) view

the design exaggerates its excisions by utilizing contrasting colours and materials from the rest of the exterior surface. finished in a light shade, the garage and terrace reflect the artificial illumination of the interior, causing the two volumes to glow during the night.

night view

schematic diagram

site plan

floor plan / level 0

floor plan / level +1

section

project info:

architect: masahiro kinoshita / KINO architects structure: wooden storeys: 2 site area: 98.49 m2 building area: 58.97 m2 total floor area: 98.74 m2