A seven-story apartment building towers on the south side of the property.
The concern was how to block the line of vision from the apartment building and maintain privacy, while ensuring ample light and ventilation. In order to meet these requirements we designed a 40 meter concrete screen wall along the south side of the residence. Precise calculations were done for its size and structure.
One encounters unobstructed views not only through the spacious glass walls but also from various places throughout the house. Light-weight roofing is used to safeguard from earthquakes. From any point inside, one can glimpse the tops of trees through higher sashes, with the sky seen beyond. Soft, dancing light produces ever- changing seasonal views. The silhouette of rustling leaves and evening’s amber shades on the walls are picturesque, while the distilled light of night paints another mood.
The house is divided by an indoor corridor, somewhat like an alley that extends east to west, cutting through the patio. It not only gives beauty in depth, helps divide living spaces, but also functions as a wind passage. The wind coming from under the ukikabe flows refreshingly through this corridor, producing a gentle alley breeze.
This residence was completed in the spring. Occasionally flower petals flutter from the peach tree in the patio. When enjoying their beauty a pleasant breeze enters the rooms. One senses spring in the house. Visual beauty matters, but a comfort felt with eyes closed is superior to all. An outside that exists inside, an interior that evolves with the outdoor. We have contemplated deeply on this concept and engaged in its creation.
