Homes in Ikoma

Nara Prefecture, Japan
Photo © Shigeo Ogawa

The project focused on how to bring light into this irregular corner lot, characterized by narrow streets and densely packed houses.
Two rectangles of different heights are arranged along the east-west property line, and the void created between them is treated as a loft space, allowing soft light to filter in from above.
In the low-rise section facing the street, slit-like openings were created at the base and near the ceiling to guide subdued light into the interior while controlling the line of sight.
By layering light of different qualities, we aimed to create a space that, despite its simple composition, conveys a sense of depth.
Inside the studio apartment, two movable boxes have been installed. Their arrangement can be freely adjusted to suit the residents’ lifestyle, allowing the space to adapt to changing living patterns over time.

Photo © Shigeo Ogawa
Photo © Shigeo Ogawa
Photo © Shigeo Ogawa
Photo © Shigeo Ogawa
Photo © Shigeo Ogawa
Photo © Shigeo Ogawa
Photo © Shigeo Ogawa
Photo © Shigeo Ogawa
Photo © Shigeo Ogawa
Photo © Shigeo Ogawa
Photo © Shigeo Ogawa
Architects
Shogo Aratani Architect & Associates
Year
2021
Project Status
Built

Related Projects 

  • Secondary School Schulstraße
    Kronaus Mitterer Architekten
  • GROHE Water Experience Center
    D’art Design Gruppe GmbH
  • Limmatquai 4
    Kästli Storen
  • Primary School Erlaaer Schleife
    Kronaus Mitterer Architekten
  • Ortsdurchfahrt Domat/Ems
    Luminum GmbH

Magazine 

Other Projects by 荒谷省午建築研究所 

House in Shinkitajima
Osaka, Japan
Trapezoid
Hyogo, Japan
Residences at Asagiri-Oka
Hyogo Prefecture, Japan
House on a Cliff
Hyogo Prefecture, Japan
Renovation Residences in Maya
Hyogo Prefecture, Japan