Even though it’s not one of the most spacious homes in the world, this modern abode in Shiga Prefecture, Japan is definitely one of the coziest. It was finished in 2015 by FORM | Kouichi Kimura Architects, and it flaunts 99 square feet of living space. It was built on a tight lot in a relatively crowded neighborhood, which is why it boasts a compact design with enhanced interior spaces.
The interior atmosphere is contemporary and minimalistic, mainly because white is the predominant color adorning the walls, floors and ceilings. The first floor features a staircase that is illuminated naturally and is connected to a bedroom and a child’s room. The second level comprises the dining area, kitchen, living room, a wet area and a small versatile room. For variety purposes, the ceiling has different heights in different rooms, and it features a few small openings that allow natural light to flow throughout the living spaces.
From the architect:
The house is built at one of the small sites crowded with houses and surrounded by narrow roads. With such conditions, we suggested the beautiful and compact house that includes enriched inner spaces.
On the first floor, the parking space is secured first, and the remaining space is best utilized by connecting the bed room and child’s room directly to the stair hall. At the small stair hall, clear sightlines is ensured by the light passing through from upstairs and the shape of the stair wall, making the space bright and rhythmical.
The second floor is protruded toward the front road to the best possible extent allowed by the relevant regulation so that the maximum volume can be secured for the use of the living room, dining kitchen, small versatile room, and wet area.
The ceiling height is varied to produce visual expansion, and several openings are designed so that light comes in from various positions.
The furnished fixtures make the space effectively used to create a cozy but expanding place.
The comfortableness, which is produced by the small space and would hardly be realized by a broad space, is a major fascination of this house.
- Location: Shiga Prefecture, Japan
- Area: 92.0 sqm
- Project Year: 2015
- Photographs: Yoshihiro Asada