House in Oimachi / LEVEL Architects

Architects: LEVEL Architects
Location: Tokyo, Japan
Project Year: 2010
Project Area: 338.55 sqm
Photographs: LEVEL Architects

This project is a narrow house with a width of 3.6-meters and a depth of 11.7-meters. Because the width is very narrow, one of the main goal of this project was to maximize the interior space. Since privacy is a high priority of the project, a courtyard was designed in the center of the building, allowing daylight to filter in while ensuring privacy.

The loft, the bedroom and the bathroom of the 3rd floor are set around this courtyard, providing each with light and breeze from outside.
By operating the air volume, there are four layers in the north including the loft. By setting both the high ceiling of the living room and the low ceiling of the loft to the same floor, the courtyard is set between, creating a more spacious atmosphere.

Despite new developments in the neighborhood, the hung courtyard will remain unchanged, giving daylight and a comfortable breeze all the while.