House in Sinjyo: A Masterpiece of Privacy and Light

Kiyoshi Sugimoto's Innovative Design Wins Silver A' Design Award

The House in Sinjyo is situated on a sloping site, overlooking a busy national highway bypass. The challenge was to ensure privacy from the highway while creating a relaxing, hotel-like space for the couple residing there. Sugimoto's solution was a square building with no external openings, focusing instead on an internal light court that brings in natural light while maintaining seclusion.

The light court, placed on the south side of the house, is shared by the living room and bathroom. This strategic placement allows for the enjoyment of natural light without segmenting the space too much. The court is set two stairs higher than the living room, creating a sense of closeness to the outside world despite the lack of external windows.

The house, with a total floor area of 94.26m2, is a wooden structure, a choice that presented its own challenges. Despite the structural limitations of wood, Sugimoto and his team, including Tomohiro Tatsukawa, managed to create an open, spacious area for the residents. The floor plan was meticulously designed to balance the need for light and wind with the need to block sound and sight from the bypass.

The House in Sinjyo is a testament to Sugimoto's innovative approach to design. The house's unique features, such as the light court and the lack of external windows, set it apart from other residential buildings. This design showcases Sugimoto's ability to meet and overcome challenges, resulting in a home that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

In recognition of its unique design and innovative use of space, the House in Sinjyo was awarded the Silver A' Design Award in 2021. This prestigious award is given to designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise and innovation, and the House in Sinjyo is a deserving recipient. As Sugimoto's design continues to inspire and amaze, it is clear that this is a home that truly stands out.