Yokohama Chigasakihigashi: A Home Designed Around the Sky

Kei Tamai’s vision reconnects modern living with nature in Japan

In the dense suburbs of Japan’s major cities, privacy and energy efficiency often take precedence, resulting in homes that turn inward and shut out the outside world. Kei Tamai, in collaboration with renowned architect Shin Takamatsu, challenges this trend with Yokohama Chigasakihigashi—a housing project that revives the traditional Japanese connection to nature. The design draws inspiration from historical homes that embraced the environment, aiming to restore a sense of harmony between residents and the natural world.

The unique feature of this home lies in its “sky room”—a space that extends vertically, surrounded by minimalist white interiors. Takamatsu, celebrated for his expertise in traditional Japanese architecture, emphasizes the importance of a home’s relationship with the sky. The flexible layout allows the sky room to serve as either a central focus or a seamless extension of the surrounding living spaces, offering residents diverse ways to experience the outdoors from within their home.

Technically, the residence is organized around a central courtyard, which acts as the sky room. Hallways and rooms encircle this open space, enabling residents to move freely and enjoy a variety of living styles. Large windows and open sightlines ensure that natural light fills the interiors, reducing the need for artificial lighting. The design also encourages passersby to look upward, fostering a communal appreciation for the sky and its changing moods.

Research into traditional Japanese homes, such as Kyoto’s machiya, informed the project’s approach. These historical dwellings were designed to maximize natural elements like light and air, even in crowded urban settings. By reviving these principles, Yokohama Chigasakihigashi reduces energy consumption and deepens the emotional connection between residents and their environment. The result is a modern home that respects both tradition and sustainability.

Despite the challenges of balancing cost and design—especially in a market dominated by mass-produced developments—Kei Tamai and Shin Takamatsu have demonstrated that quality and innovation can coexist. The project’s completion in 2016 marked the beginning of a series of award-winning homes, with Yokohama Chigasakihigashi receiving the prestigious Golden A’ Design Award in 2025 for its outstanding contribution to architecture and lifestyle.

Yokohama Chigasakihigashi stands as a testament to the enduring value of thoughtful design. By prioritizing harmony with nature and the sky, the project offers a blueprint for future housing developments that seek to enrich daily life while honoring cultural heritage and environmental responsibility.