N Strips: A Renovation of Collective Housing

Revitalizing an Old Residence with a Charming Facade

A complete renovation was desired for the N Strips residence, a collective housing building that had stood for almost four decades. The project involved a complete overhaul of the facade, equipment, and layout. The white vertical louver, with its unique appearance, not only harmonizes with the surrounding area but also enhances the building's presence, especially in the evening, making it an iconic structure in the new town.

The realization of the N Strips design required extensive work, including the complete reformation of equipment and the laying of new pipes. The unevenness and exposed pipes on the outer wall were carefully concealed using a vertical louver. To achieve a lightweight structure, the louver was painted white and made from cedar material. The louver's surface texture, resembling metal, creates various expressions depending on the angle and sunlight, adding to its visual appeal.

The N Strips design features a random arrangement of 30mm x 75mm vertical louvers, creating a contrast against the building's surroundings. Despite the necessary openings in the facade to ensure views from the interior, the impact of the visible wires passing in front of the building is minimized.

As part of the renovation, 11 rooms of various sizes were refurbished. The interior spaces and equipment were completely reformed, and seven types of dwelling doors were replaced to align with modern lifestyles. The design aimed to provide residents with a wide range of rental options, maximizing freedom and selectivity.

The N Strips project, located in Osaka, Japan, commenced in November 2014 and was completed in July 2015. Extensive research was conducted to ensure efficient and rational design, taking into account the needs and opinions of each resident. The design team also focused on upgrading lighting and sanitary equipment to enhance the overall living experience.

The N Strips design presented several challenges, including the arrangement of the louvers. Using program software like Grasshopper, the design team digitized various parameters such as louver spacing and opening rates to study different possibilities. The final design was chosen based on cost-effectiveness and meeting the specific needs of the project. The team aimed to push the boundaries of design beyond human consciousness and sense.

Jun Murata's renovation of the N Strips residence showcases a successful transformation of an old building into a visually appealing and functional space. The vertical louver facade not only conceals imperfections but also adds a touch of elegance to the surrounding area. The project's recognition includes the Iron A' Design Award in 2016, highlighting its well-designed, practical, and innovative nature.