UZU architects orients cross house towards mountains near kyoto

UZU architects orients cross house towards mountains near kyoto
photo by akiyoshi fukuzawa
all images courtesy of UZU architects

nestled near the hills outside of kyoto, UZU architects have completed the ‘cross house,’ orienting it toward views of the two mountains adjacent to the site. relating to the clients’ nationalities (a french husband and japanese wife), the scheme combines an expressive timber structure, typical of japanese architecture, with brightly colored walls on the interior. the client, being a chef, requested a pleasant and open kitchen. the result is a high space with large sliding glass doors which allow for direct connection to the outdoor deck.

the kitchen is the dwelling’s highest space, and opens onto the outdoor deck
photo by akiyoshi fukuzawa

the east wing of the house is primarily composed of the high kitchen and dining area. the split level western section is accessed via diverging staircases, with an open children’s room on the upper floor and a bedroom, atelier, and storage space below.

the dwelling expresses its timber structure
photo by akiyoshi fukuzawa

a loft bedroom overlooks the kitchen
photos by akiyoshi fukuzawa

the children’s room occupies the upper level of the house’s north wing
photo by akiyoshi fukuzawa

brightly colored doors contrast the more natural overall material palette
photo by akiyoshi fukuzawa

the house faces toward two forested mountains to the north
photo by akiyoshi fukuzawa

an outdoor deck fills the inner angle of the house’s plan
photo by akiyoshi fukuzawa

a gravel driveway approaches the residence
photo by akiyoshi fukuzawa

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project info:

location: kyoto, japan
type: residence
site area: 466.44 sqm
built area: 89.49 sqm
total floor area: 130.98 sqm
architects: UZU / tetsuya matsui, tomoko murata
photography: akiyoshi fukuzawa