This project’s site in Japan is located on a very steep slope directly facing the Seto Inland Sea and is characterized by a unique view of Miyajima Island and its Itsukushima Shrine.
Kazunori Fujimoto Architect & Associates‘ main intention was to create a house that can freely spread in both horizontal and vertical directions and face the Itsukushima Shrine in a respectful way.
The design process started from disassembling the traditional box and from the intent to give a sense of lightness and movement to the south facade through a De-Stijl style operation.
The road level meets the house in its vertical center from the entrance to the first floor, which goes down 1,5 stories. Here, a room with a high ceiling pops up after walking down the long dark staircase between the walls.
The second and third floors connect via a wellhole. The overhanging wall on the south facade extends itself beyond the width and height of the house, giving a feeling of extension to the interior space.
The three-axis direction, by the vertical wellhole, the horizontal split windows and the extension of the balcony, raise awareness of the outspread space. From the outside, the facade maintains the same principles that can be found in the inside rooms.
The house represents a simple composition that responds to the advantages of its location where one can enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of the Seto Inland Sea.
Design, info and images © Kazunori Fujimoto Architect & Associates
