Float: A Unique Residential House by Michihiro Matsuo

Winner of the Silver A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2023

The project site is located adjacent to a reservoir, providing a stunning view of the water surface and the northern mountains. The design takes full advantage of the site's height difference, creating a house with a great view. The living room is placed at the top to ensure privacy and a panoramic view. The space is open and designed to bring the outside scenery into the room.

The design's unique properties lie in its complex and bold spatial composition. The wooden structure, mainly adopted in Japan, was chosen considering the building's heat insulation performance and durability. Structural analysis was conducted, and large-section laminated wood and metal joints were used to ensure the building's strength and safety, especially considering Japan's earthquake-prone nature.

Float is a three-story house with a site area of 601.52 and a size of 338.24. The design is planned with a wooden structure that has secured strength by structural analysis, aiming for a low-carbon society. Despite the challenges often associated with providing large openings in Japanese wooden structures, precise structural analysis allowed for the design of a large space and a large opening.

The house operates in a way that the main life takes place in the living space on the 3rd floor, which floats in the air. The surrounding daily life takes place on the ground, and strategically placed trees and shapes of the houses effectively guide the gaze of passers-by. The living room located on the top floor reflects the surface of the water below, creating a special space with no obstructions.

The design was completed in Hyogo, Japan, in 2022. The underlying research for this design involved improving the performance of the outer skin and heat insulation, utilizing sunlight and high-performance air conditioners, and collecting data such as regularly measuring the temperature to see if it could be solved as a zero energy house. The design also faced the challenge of securing natural energy and improving the comfort and performance of the house while ensuring the privacy of residents.

In conclusion, Float is a remarkable architectural design that not only meets the owner's desire for a great view but also addresses the challenges of energy consumption, privacy, and structural strength. It is a testament to Michihiro Matsuo's innovative approach to architecture, which has earned him the Silver A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2023.