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Architecture Reforms Consciousness

Yo Shimada of Tato Architects delivers architecture that renews itself through people’s everyday experiences with the House in Hokusetsu. By Aarti Mohan

Simply angled geometric spaces are one of the possible forms for residents to pursue freedom and make full use of an autonomous space. Since we are familiar with spaces designed with right angles, it is easy to measure their spatial volumes and relationships. However, by slightly turning the corners where the walls intersect, spatial awareness suddenly becomes complicated and one feels that the limited space has expanded.

House in Hokusetsu by Tato Architects

House in Hokusetsu by Tato Architects

House in Hokusetsu is a house for a family who wishes to enjoy a life full of discovery and appreciate each other’s presence. The house hosts many rooms where twelve 2.895-millimeter squares are arranged to connect to each other with a rhombus composed of two regular triangles. Yo Shimada had been sensing potential in this pattern from earlier studies, where he had experimented by making models. As the twelve squares are gradually turned to become a sequence of eighteen squares, a position that fits nicely into the site was selected, creating a dynamic pattern out of all the different angles. The main functions were primarily placed within the square parts of the plan and the rhombus areas was left undefined for free use.

House in Hokusetsu

House in Hokusetsu

The structure remains relatively close to its surroundings, which was the client’s wish. There are three garden spaces along the outer perimeter and two courtyards in the interior. As a result of the design, both indoor spaces and courtyards are brightened by top light and illuminated with various forms of light.

House in Hokusetsu

House in Hokusetsu

Since exposure to outdoor scenery, to which one can position himself, is limited, the space encourages the residents to travel between the different rooms to rediscover their own location. The structure is made of wood, and each square plan is supported by pillars, resulting in a peaceful interior despite its unique form.

House in Hokusetsu

House in Hokusetsu

House in Hokusetsu

House in Hokusetsu

The design of this house has a simplicity like a cross inside a square plan used in old houses. Each part, while representing a different quality, is also compatible and expandable, and there is possibility for various circulations to emerge. This house is filled with autonomous spaces that can accommodate changes in lifestyle; it is a crystalline labyrinth where the spaces are repeatedly reflected into a prismatic figure.

“Well-planned houses are sometimes too close to human lives. While they are comfortable, I feel that too much planning has the risk of forcing a pre-defined lifestyle onto the residents. Perhaps if we start the process from a point not too close to the client’s initial wishes, and seek an autonomous solution while considering various conditions, we will ultimately enable them to live more freely and actively”, says Yo Shimada.

Photo credits – Shikenchiku Sha

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