kishimoto himeno designs a house in sirahama-cho to embrace pacific ocean views

kishimoto himeno architects has designed a house in sirahama-cho with one, fundamental interest — preserving the site’s pacific ocean views along the japanese coast. elements of the preexisting structure were maintained in the design to create of a home that mirrors the serene tranquility of the water. the interior’s open plan allows the family to congregate in almost any space and enjoy unobstructed views of the ocean.

kishimoto himeno architects’ design capitalizes on the site’s sweeping views of the pacific ocean 
all images by yohei sasakura

the site’s changing elevations required the design to accomodate this natural variation. as the space recedes further into the structure, the floor-to-ceiling height decreases gradually — moving away from the open views and increasing the sense of personal privacy. in the main bedroom, the low ceilings provide a comfortable and intimate environment.

the interior’s open plan and main area’s high ceilings make the space seem larger

closest to the water, kishimoto himeno architects’ design reserved an area for an outdoor, covered eating space and annex, allowing meals to be enjoyed outside the confines of the home, while maintaining accessibility to the kitchen and preparation areas. even though the site contained limited space, light floods into the interior from open walls, windows, and skylights — making the space seem even larger. 

as the space moves further away from the ocean the room’s functions become more personal

natural light floods the interior through open walls, doors, windows, and skylights

constant changes in the site’s elevation were embraced and are evident in the current design