Minimalist House in Japan

Minimalist House in Japan

© Masao Nishikawa Photography Studio

The client of this 126 square meter private house in Japan, designed by APOLLO Architects & Associates, is the owner of a large collection of art pieces. Therefore, he wanted to start a new chapter in his family life in a residence whose characteristics make it resemble a museum.

The extremely simple layout of the house includes a living room joined with a dining area leading to an inner courtyard, and the owners' bedroom, children's room, and bathroom occupying wings on both sides of the atrium. On one side, such symmetry corresponds to the style of Western architecture, while on the other, the symmetry is disrupted by the inclusion of a staircase and another inner courtyard, which reflects the principles of classical Japanese aesthetics.

The coffered ceiling of the living room, featuring a grid of 1.2-meter squares — thus giving the project its name Grid — alludes to Shinto temple architecture and traditional Japanese sukiya-style residential buildings. In addition to its functional role of supporting the roof's weight, the ceiling transforms the entire building into a work of art executed in minimalist style.

Photographs: Masao Nishikawa Photography Studio