Big picture windows facing a vista of 50-year-old cherry blossom trees define this residence. A neighbor’s tall retaining wall borders the southern edge of the property, which meant that even if architect oriented ground floor rooms towards the south they would get little natural light.
On the other hand, a broad road with excellent views of the cherry trees runs along the northern edge of the property.
Architect therefore settled on a plan that actively incorporates light and views on the northern side of the house. Picture windows of various sizes provide abundant light and a sense of openness despite the northern orientation, and accent the facade as well.
House in Suita, image courtesy Naoko Horibe
House in Suita, image courtesy Naoko Horibe
House in Suita, image courtesy Naoko Horibe
House in Suita, image courtesy Naoko Horibe
House in Suita, image courtesy Naoko Horibe
+ Project credits / data
Project: House in Suita
Design to completion: March 2010 – July 2010
Location: Suita-Shi, OSAKA
Primary usage: Residence
Structure: Steel-frame construction, two stories above ground
Client: Couple with two children
Type: Private house
Site area: 199.31 m²
Building area: 69.01 m²
Total floor space: 112.74 m²
Architect: Naoko Horibe | http://naoko-horibe.com/
Photographer: Kaori Ichikawa
House in Suita - Level 1 floor plan, drawing courtesy Naoko Horibe
House in Suita - Level 2 floor plan, drawing courtesy Naoko Horibe
House in Suita - Section, drawing courtesy Naoko Horibe