A2-house [shell house]

Residence Designed by Masahiko Sato

A2-house, also known as "shell house," is a unique residence designed by Masahiko Sato in Fukuoka city. Situated in a crowded area surrounded by residences and shops, the main concept of this design is to protect the family from the various neighboring environments of the site. The north side of the house, facing a busy industrial road, has no openings on the outer wall to ensure privacy and mitigate traffic noise.

To emphasize the beautiful wooden wall and create a lasting impression, a white wall is pushed out diagonally towards the road. This design choice not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also provides a sense of privacy and security for the residents.

The interior of the house is designed to maximize brightness and ventilation. A smaller light court is strategically placed to provide natural light to all rooms, allowing the residents to experience the changing seasons, daytime variations, and natural elements such as rain and wind. The windows in the smaller light court are designed to protect privacy while still allowing the occupants to connect with the outside world.

The A2-house features a wooden structure and offers five bedrooms, along with parking space for two cars. The design successfully integrates the architecture with the surrounding environment by retreating the house from the road and planting trees. The entrance is secured with an overslide door, operated by a remote control, enhancing crime prevention measures and ensuring the safety of the residents.

Completed in 2013, the A2-house [shell house] is a testament to the designer's commitment to creating a space that prioritizes the well-being and comfort of the occupants. The design harmonizes function, aesthetics, and the environment to provide a joyful and pleasant living experience.

This remarkable design has been recognized with the Silver A' Design Award in the Architecture, Building, and Structure Design category. The award acknowledges the outstanding expertise, innovation, and artistic skill demonstrated in this design, which showcases a remarkable level of excellence and evokes positive emotions, amazement, and wonder.