‘house in kitaoji’ by torafu architects, kyoto, japan image © daici ano

designed for a client in need of privacy and separation from the outside, japenese firm torafu architect‘s ‘house in kitaoji’ in kyoto holds within a hard shell a warm bright hub for living. a solid outer boundary of exposed concrete gives an almost uninviting and cold characteristic to the dwelling, with few windows connecting the public and private realms. by contrast, the interior program features a softer palette of wood in light-filled spaces with gabled roofs and bedrooms of different ceiling heights.

another special design consideration was the inhabitant’s need for wheelchair accessibility, resulting in a simple plan layout for easy access with an elevator connecting the street level to the upstairs. the main living space is located in the middle of the second storey, eliminating the need for corridors and letting the bedrooms, bathrooms, and auxiliary functions act as buffers between the outside and inside. large flexible volumes make travel between them comfortable and fast. wide doors, hallways and cantilevering counters make an ideal residence for the handicapped.

torafu architects: house in kitaoji corner site placement image © daici ano

torafu architects: house in kitaoji few windows look to the exterior

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torafu architects: house in kitaoji front entrance with wide door for accessibility

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torafu architects: house in kitaoji large voids allow light to enter while controlling views

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torafu architects: house in kitaoji first floor is open to the outside

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torafu architects: house in kitaoji open central courtyard

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torafu architects: house in kitaoji elevator entrance

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torafu architects: house in kitaoji interior living space

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torafu architects: house in kitaoji kitchen and living space

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torafu architects: house in kitaoji kitchen on lowered counters

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torafu architects: house in kitaoji (left) bedroom open to terrace (right) wide hallway

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torafu architects: house in kitaoji bedroom with large door

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torafu architects: house in kitaoji view at dusk

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