Minimalist Tokyo Apartment Wins Prestigious Design Award

Amar Bari: Where Less Is More in Central Tokyo Living

Amidst the bustling streets of Central Tokyo, the Amar Bari apartment stands as a testament to the power of minimalist design. Conceived by Hiroaki Iwasa, this four-unit rental complex caters to single-person households, offering a unique living experience that values the bare essentials. The design takes cues from Chisoku, a philosophy that encourages contentment with simplicity and the infinite possibilities that arise from it. This concept not only influences the physical space but also the relationship between the residents and their environment.

What sets Amar Bari apart is its distinctive architecture—a bare concrete frame that pushes the boundaries of the compact site. Inside, wooden booths conceal the minimal living facilities and appliances, creating a 3.5-meter-high space for residents to use freely. This "blank space" is the heart of the design, allowing occupants to craft a lifestyle that reflects their personal vision. The project's strength lies in its ability to offer a canvas for residents to express themselves, whether through art, music, or community engagement.

The construction of Amar Bari is a study in simplicity and functionality. The reinforced concrete frame provides robust soundproofing and insulation, while the wooden equipment booths efficiently house various appliances within a constrained space. This strategic selection of materials optimizes the function and longevity of each component, streamlining the construction process. The technical specifications reveal the meticulous planning behind each unit, with total floor areas and individual unit sizes carefully calibrated for optimal use.

Amar Bari's design encourages interaction with the space in ways that extend beyond the traditional confines of an apartment. Residents can transform their units into studios, offices, or galleries, fostering a connection with the local community. This versatility is a hallmark of the design, reflecting a deep understanding of how space can be both personal and communal.

The project, which spanned from March 2009 to January 2011, was a challenging endeavor. It required a delicate balance between minimizing space and maximizing comfort. The result is a compact yet versatile living environment where even the washroom, reminiscent of an airplane lavatory, includes storage and room to change. Some units offer the choice between a bathtub or just a shower, and the wooden booths feature a loft space above, further expanding the living area.

Amar Bari's recognition with an Iron A' Design Award in 2024 underscores its success in integrating practicality with innovation. The award celebrates well-designed creations that fulfill professional standards and contribute positively to the world. Hiroaki Iwasa's Amar Bari stands as a model for future urban living, where less truly becomes more, and the essence of Chisoku is brought to life through architecture.

Photography for Amar Bari has been expertly captured by Hiroshi Tabuse, whose images convey the project's minimalist aesthetic and the tranquil atmosphere it fosters. As Amar Bari continues to gain acclaim, it serves as a reminder of the potential for thoughtful design to shape not just spaces, but the lives of those who inhabit them.