Double Skin: A Modern Interpretation of Traditional Japanese Design

Nobuhito Mori's Innovative House Design Wins Silver A' Design Award

The 'Double Skin' house, despite its location in a densely populated area, stands out for its unique design features. The site is small, with a mere 1-meter distance from the neighboring land. However, Mori has ingeniously designed the house to ensure both light and privacy. The translucent cladding on the facade not only softens incoming light but also blurs the visibility of both passersby and inhabitants. At night, the lighted facade transforms into a large light, illuminating the streets.

Mori's design inspiration stems from the traditional Japanese shoji, a thin wooden frame covered with translucent paper. The shoji is known for its ability to soften light and blur interiors, providing a sense of privacy. Mori has modernized this concept, creating a light filter that is resistant to wind and rain, and can be used outdoors.

The realization of this design involved the use of polycarbonate as a weatherproof and semi-transparent material. To enhance its strength, folded plates and flat sheets are attached with plastic bars. Openings where it is necessary to block the view from the outside are covered with the translucent cladding, while emergency access and ventilation openings are exposed.

The 'Double Skin' house spans an area of 35m2, with a building area of 19m2 and a total floor area of 55m2. The main structure is a timber frame, spread across three stories. The design is minimal and compact, reflecting Mori's aesthetic sensibilities and his ability to maximize space effectively.

This innovative design has not gone unnoticed. The 'Double Skin' house was awarded Silver in the A' Architecture, Building, and Structure Design Award in 2022. This prestigious award is given to designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise and innovation, and Mori's design certainly fits the bill. His design not only showcases technical excellence but also introduces positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.

In conclusion, Nobuhito Mori's 'Double Skin' house is a shining example of innovative architecture that pays homage to traditional design elements. It is a testament to Mori's creativity and his ability to transform a small, densely populated space into a beacon of light and privacy. The 'Double Skin' house is not just a structure; it is a piece of art that illuminates the streets of Tokyo.