K2-Design: House in Shimanto

Japanese architect Keisuke Kawaguchi aims for functionality in this semi-interred single family house, while pursuing a design that engages with the surrounding landscape.

House in Shimanto
Japanese architecture studio K2-Design has recently completed a single family house in Shimanto, in the mountain-surrounded plateau of Kouchi Prefecture, Japan. Despite the striking surroundings, the project presented a few challenges. "Our first priority was safeguarding against the anticipated potential damage caused by heavy rainfall," states K2-Design director Keisuke Kawaguchi. "Second, in the midst of an open rural landscape, the property stands facing an intersection of an interstate road which produces a great deal of daytime traffic."

The architects sought to minimise noise and increase privacy and comfort for residents. In order to do so, a low, simple roof was determined, creating a striking, semi-interred volume when seen from the road, loacated north. On the south side, the house opens to the surroundings. "We arranged rooms meticulously, at the same time being conscious of the exterior," states Kawaguchi. "Our aim was for functionality without being ordinary, while pursuing a design that engaged with the surrounding scenery."
K2-Design, House of Shimanto
K2-Design, House in Shimanto, Kouchi Prefecture, Japan2013
The house features high ceilings, and a large skylight in the centre of the space, which allows for air circulation and daylight to enter the space. Openings along the south side of the living room and bedroom provide unobstructed views from the rooms to the outdoors, where a quiet rural scene can be observed. On the first floor, sliding doors were installed, giving residents the flexibility to control interior temperatures.

The architects admit their main concept was the idea of a connection between the house and the surrounding nature, creating a volume they compare to a small hill. "The true worth of a dwelling is determined by how it matures with the passing of time. As a building ages, its significance of existence also evolves," states Kawaguchi. "We have worked through this project pursuing all these matters. Our core consideration was the significance of design, and the Shimanto house was built upon this foundation.
K2-Design, House of Shimanto
K2-Design, House in Shimanto, Kouchi Prefecture, Japan2013
K2-Design: House in Shimanto
Location:
Shimanto, Kouchi Prefecture, Japan
Program: Single family house
Completion: 2013
K2-Design, House of Shimanto
K2-Design, House in Shimanto, Kouchi Prefecture, Japan2013
K2-Design, House of Shimanto
K2-Design, House in Shimanto, Kouchi Prefecture, Japan2013
K2-Design, House of Shimanto
K2-Design, House in Shimanto, Kouchi Prefecture, Japan2013
K2-Design, House of Shimanto
K2-Design, House in Shimanto, Kouchi Prefecture, Japan2013

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