Ishii Hideki Architect Atelier

This project represents the client’s vision for a final residence—the culmination of a life spent living in various homes, both rented and owned. Akiya, a popular vacation destination, was chosen as the site.
The lot is situated at the first bend of a winding road that climbs straight up from the sea; across the road to the south lies a landscaped park, and the sea stretches out at the bottom of the slope. To the east, a retaining wall rises to mark the start of the uphill slope leading to a residential area; to the north, a house stands atop the retaining wall, separated by an open lot. Furthermore, a river flows 6 meters below the site from the northwest to the west, and residential buildings are located immediately to the west.
The site was likely chosen for its serene atmosphere and the natural blessings evident throughout the area. Furthermore, seeking an environment to quietly engage with calligraphy away from the city, we wished to avoid urban noise. Therefore, we intended to maximize the site’s potential by carefully selecting elements of the surrounding environment to shape the space.
Although the distance to the sea makes the view somewhat lacking, the ability to sense the sea is a crucial element of this location. We believed its presence is particularly suited to helping shift one’s mindset from daily life to calligraphy, so we planned a view of the sea at the entrance to the calligraphy space. Due to the elevation difference relative to the river, the entire interior space is stepped down toward the river, and the roof follows this gradient to ensure that the view of the river upstream is naturally incorporated into daily life. Furthermore, by demolishing part of the retaining wall on the site and planning a riverside terrace near the river’s drop structure, we intended to allow the flow and sound of the river to be felt every day. The vacant lot to the north is utilized as a garden, its view blocked by the retaining wall of the neighboring house beyond.
While ensuring multi-directional views toward the sea, the river, and the greenery of the garden, the roof is deeply overhung—as if pulling a hat down over one’s eyes—to shield the home from the gaze of the higher surrounding properties, thereby balancing its relationship with the neighborhood.
By striving to maximize the charm of this location, I believe we have created a space worthy of serving as the client’s permanent residence, where they can fully enjoy nature, and as a new home that enriches their life as a calligrapher.