minako wakasa’s rural farmhouse references american shaker architecture

minako wakasa’s rural farmhouse references american shaker architecture
photography by yoshihiro asada

located in japan’s shiga prefecture, this rural dwelling named ‘farmhouse’ references the simple and reserved nature of american shaker architecture. designed by minako wakasa in collaboration with motoaki sano, the home’s interior is organized around a wood burning stove, with solid timber flooring extending throughout the plan. complementing this use of natural materials, iron, glass and fabric have all been utilized to ensure a comfortable and hospitable living environment for the client and their family.

the compact dwelling is situated in a rural area of japan’s centrally located shiga prefecture

the home’s entrance is found between two protruding metal-clad volumes

the use of different types of timber continues throughout the design

 the home’s interior is organized around a wood burning stove

natural materials ensure a comfortable and hospitable living environment

timber surfaces extend throughout the plan, with curtains used to delineate space

the property references the simple and reserved nature of american shaker architecture

large floor-to-ceiling windows provide occupants with pleasant external sightlines

a private and elevated tatami space is found at the plan’s upper level

floor plan / level 0: primary living and sleeping accommodation is found at ground floor level

floor plan /level +1: the upper storey, including the residence’s secluded tatami space (right)

project info:

location: shiga, japan
client: private
completed: 2014
site area: 359.48 sqm / 3,864 sqf
constructed area: 156.09 sqm / 1,680 sqf
photography: yoshihiro asada