Description
High-density development in central Tokyo with a very tight plot called for skilful handing of spatial disposition in this design. The left-over plot behind an existing new building had to be developed almost in its entirety. This meant a rectangular block with an added entrance space, reaching out to provide side access from the street. This leads into the ground floor living/dining area, with adjacent kitchen and sanitary facilities. The extraordinary feature is the spatial link between this main living space and the stairs, a pedestal space as an intermediate level and gallery, leading on to the top floor with two bedrooms and a terrace.
As in his ‘House in Black’, Chiba Manabu turns out to be a virtuoso inventor of space, even in this tiny area. Air spaces and light wells transform this minimal volume in to a lavish spatial ensemble. Manabu ties the minimal spatial directions together in such a way as to give the impression of a large-scale continuum of spaces. The need to create the maximum possible space even on a tiny plot implied emphasizing vertical lines. In this way Manabu develops a new sense of space and living that is certainly particularly typical of Japan.
Careful detailing and the black insertions contrasting with the white of the outside walls emphasize sculptural volumes within a neutral envelope. The architect uses his reduced design to indicate his intention to create timeless architectural form within this fast-living city.
Drawings
Position of the house on a tight, inner-city plot
Axonometric diagram of the building with the living area on the ground floor and link with the access area
Ground floor with access area, living area, kitchen and bathroom
Second floor with access and airspace
Third floor with bedrooms and terrace
Longitudinal section through living room, staircase pedestal and bedroom area above
Photos
Exterior view of the main entrance with closely neighbouring building
Interior view of staircase pedestal with the view through to the living room
Originally published in: Klaus-Peter Gast, Living Plans: New Concepts for Advanced Housing, Birkhäuser, 2005.