House in Niigata: A Design that Harmonizes with the Old Cityscape

Residential Building Designed by Kazunori Kiryu

The House in Niigata, designed by Kazunori Kiryu, stands out in the old residential area of Niigata, Japan. This private residence, where a family of four lives, breaks the monotony of the uniform cityscape by harmonizing with the surrounding buildings. The wooden outer wall material, lightly colored in gray, blends seamlessly with the old townscape, giving the house a weathered and timeless appearance.

One of the unique features of this design is the incorporation of two gardens within the house. On the first floor, a courtyard surrounded by a concrete wall creates a private and serene space. On the second floor, a roof terrace, enclosed by a wooden lattice and outer wall, offers a tranquil retreat. All the rooms in the house are strategically placed around these two gardens, allowing the residents to feel connected to nature without compromising their privacy. The thoughtful design eliminates the need for blinds or curtains, enhancing the connection with the outside world.

The House in Niigata was constructed using traditional wooden construction methods, showcasing the designer's commitment to preserving the essence of Japanese architecture. The site area spans 158.60m2, with a floor area of 104.34m2, providing ample space for comfortable living.

This design exemplifies the balance between openness and privacy. The careful consideration of light and wind flow ensures a harmonious living environment. The House in Niigata not only enhances the quality of life for its residents but also contributes to the overall cityscape, creating a neighborhood that embraces nature while preserving its historical charm.

Construction of the House in Niigata began in 2017 and was completed in 2018. The project faced challenges in integrating the design with the densely populated old residential area. However, through innovative thinking and a deep understanding of the local context, Kazunori Kiryu successfully created a house that seamlessly blends into the cityscape while providing a unique and nature-filled living experience.

The House in Niigata has been recognized for its exceptional design and creativity. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Architecture, Building, and Structure Design category in 2022. This prestigious award acknowledges the outstanding contribution of the design to the field of architecture, highlighting its technical and creative excellence. The House in Niigata stands as a testament to the power of design to improve the quality of life and create a better world.