The common adage “a man’s home is his castle” rings true for most residences, but is visually evoked by House in Sanbonmatsu, designed by Hironaka Ogawa & Associates. Located in Kagawa Prefecture, the courtyard-style house is built in layers such that the hipped roof rises above the gate encircling the perimeter of the landscaping of the site, much like a traditional Japanese castle’s tiered roofs upon its stony foundations. Occupying real estate originally meant for two homes, House in Sanbonmatsu expands its breadth to accommodate an interior garden, which forces a cutout in the roof form; not only does this choice create unique spatial experiences within the home but it also respects the community – both neighbors as well as the urban grid – by acknowledging a separation upon the twice-as-large site. Interiors of the natural color of wood and accents of black on the white walls negotiate both modern and traditional Japanese aesthetic.

via – Photographs © Daici Ano

    string(8) "Kimberly"
Avatar photo

Kimberly

Kimberly is a graduate from MIT's Department of Architecture, and has recently joined the publication team at MIT OpenCourseWare. While architecture remains her first love, her interests encompass literature – epic poetry and Medieval romances are her favorite – and also fashion.

Tags: , , , ,
    • Apartment with a Library

      Architecture

      The collaborative renovation and transformation project of a Milan apartment with an unconventional layout. Located…

    • The Fyrgani Holiday House

      Architecture

      A charming dry stone house designed with blue elements that reference the color of the…

    • Casa Ulìa

      Architecture

      A contemporary stone house, nestled among olive trees in the Italian countryside. Carefully built among…

    • House in Kutná Hora

      Architecture

      A thoughtful redesign and modernization of a 19th century house. The renovation of an aged…

    • East Dulwich House

      Architecture

      A creatively designed, metal-clad extension that completely transforms a Victorian terraced house in London. Built…

loader