My thoughts really run in the opposite direction of most of the commentary here. This house fits squarely within the traditions of this architectural typology in Japan while introducing some great ideas from western architecture. Likewise, the use of color is extremely correct for the context. I am going to guess that Japanese ideas of connecting to nature and occidental thought on the same topic are radically different things.

One of the many things that I enjoy about Mr. Kimura’s work are the frequent allusions to Carlo Scarpa. The seating area is such a wonderful spatial composition that plays up the idea of adjacency perfectly. The dematerializing wall and continuation of the ceiling line is in poetic juxtaposition to the interruption of the corridor. This is just enough to be defining, creating respect for the space without the need for screens or walls.

Equally terrific is Mr. Ota’s photography. To me this is what architectural photography (in the tradition of Marvin Rand) is all about.

It is very doubtful to me that any of Mr. Kimura’s clients are unhappy with his work.

Terry Glenn Phipps