Residential House: St

A Villa with a View

A stunning residential house, known as St, designed by Michihiro Matsuo, offers a unique and captivating living experience. Situated in Hyogo, Japan, this villa was completed in November 2020 and showcases the perfect blend of art, architecture, and design.

The inspiration behind the design of St was to create a space that not only captures the breathtaking view but also ensures privacy. Matsuo achieved this by constructing a frame-like structure that closes the line of sight from the outside. The result is a beautifully framed landscape that extends beyond the moderately closed space, resembling a work of art.

One of the standout features of St is the integration of indoor and outdoor spaces. The limited grounds are designed to be an integral part of the living experience, blurring the boundaries between the interior and exterior. On the first floor, a central pool allows the view of the city and the sea to flow through the space, creating a seamless connection with nature. The second floor, designed to close off the outside field of view, offers a private sanctuary where residents can fully immerse themselves in the stunning surroundings.

The realization of St required careful consideration of structural analysis and construction techniques. Given Japan's seismic activity, ensuring the safety and stability of the house was of utmost importance. The use of large-section laminated wood and metal joints, along with thorough structural calculations, resulted in a solid and earthquake-resistant structure. This combination of innovative design and structural integrity showcases Matsuo's commitment to creating spaces that are both aesthetically pleasing and safe.

With a site area of 429.69 and a size of 239.51, St offers a spacious and open living environment. The use of timber as the primary material adds warmth and character to the design, while also contributing to the overall sustainability of the project. Matsuo's expertise in wooden structures shines through in the seamless integration of large spaces with minimal pillars and expansive openings.

St has garnered recognition for its exceptional design. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Architecture, Building, and Structure Design category in 2021. This prestigious accolade is a testament to the creativity, ingenuity, and technical skill demonstrated in the design of St.

Michihiro Matsuo, along with the construction company Advance Architects, Inc, has created a masterpiece in St. This residential house not only provides a luxurious and comfortable living space but also offers a unique connection with nature and a sense of privacy. It is a testament to the power of design to enhance our lives and create a harmonious relationship between architecture and the environment.