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Breeze creates a ’’private beach effect’’ that becomes the scenery rock cave of surrounding

Japan Architecture News - Aug 06, 2015 - 20:55 3954 views

''Breeze'' designed by Artechnic, located in Tokyo- the building becomes a huge concrete machine of the surrounding. A Mute Exterior A building that sits in mute repose, like an impassive signpost. In seeking to realize such a building, which becomes part of the scenery around it, acting as part of the backdrop for passers-by, I felt that I needed to create an exterior that was distinct from the standard architectural lexicon.

Breeze creates a ’’private beach effect’’ that becomes the scenery rock cave of surrounding

Once you slip through the entrance that recalls a crevice to a secret rock cave and pass through the dimly lit interior void, suddenly you are presented with an open space that is in total contrast to the confines of what you have just experienced. The effect is to create a space like a private beach, enclosed by a soaring rock face. The studio's concept was to create a space that would provide a bolt-hole for personal rest and relaxation, while still being able to benefit from the convenience of the city center—an ideal private spot in the heart of the city.

Breeze creates a ’’private beach effect’’ that becomes the scenery rock cave of surrounding

Although the house is located in a quiet residential area on a vacant lot next to the former home of one of the notable prime ministers of 20th century Japan, it sits on a 5.5m wide frontal road that is a well-used side road, with a stream of cars and people passing by in the morning and evening. In this location, the single largest challenge was to consider how to achieve a building that would continue to maintain its appeal and superiority as a high-end rental property. Buffering walls were created on the two sides that fronted onto this main access road, with the gaps between the buffering wall serving as the entrance to each of the unit. Once inside the houses, the south-facing side features an expansive open area, which provides a light and airy living space.

Breeze creates a ’’private beach effect’’ that becomes the scenery rock cave of surrounding

The buffering wall is creating a rational cross-section. The wall on the north side is constructed so as to allow for ground-level parking space, while also widening out to provide extra space in front of the second-storey entrances. The east side features a triple-legged stairwell with single passage space on the lower floor that also widens out to a double passage space on the upper floor.

Breeze creates a ’’private beach effect’’ that becomes the scenery rock cave of surrounding