Solaia Apartment: A Harmonious Blend of Nature and Architecture

Creating a Unique Living Experience with Light and Wind

Located next to a sprawling park, the Solaia Apartment aims to bring the beauty of nature into the daily lives of its residents. The centerpiece of the design is a court softly articulated by louvers, which functions as a plaza. The stairs within the court act as a street, inviting residents to explore and interact with the open-air space.

One of the unique features of the Solaia Apartment is its emphasis on communication and connection. Two units directly face the court, creating a house-within-an-apartment concept. To reach these units, residents must approach via the court and enter through the entrance hall. This design allows for a closer connection to nature, as natural light and wind flow freely into these units, enhancing the overall living experience.

The court itself is paved with natural slate, evoking a sense of calmness and timelessness. The stairway, made of exposed concrete, adds to the organic feel of the space. The use of natural and artificial materials, such as aluminum louvers, creates a synthesis between architecture and nature, further enhancing the unique atmosphere of the Solaia Apartment.

With a total floor area of 1229 square meters, the Solaia Apartment offers a range of living spaces. Each unit seamlessly expands into the public spaces, creating a sense of unity and community among the residents. The design also takes into account the context of the site, with bamboo planted in the court to integrate the surrounding trees into the living environment.

Yoshitaka Uchino's vision for the Solaia Apartment was to design a collective form of natural public spaces within a residential setting. By drawing inspiration from plazas and streets around the world, Uchino aimed to create vibrant and joyful spaces where people can connect with nature. The result is an apartment complex that not only provides a comfortable living environment but also adds new value to the concept of apartment living.

The Solaia Apartment project started in April 2011 and was completed in March 2012 in Tokyo. Construction began in April 2012 and finished in February 2013. Throughout the design process, Uchino faced challenges such as incorporating a door into the louvers for evacuation purposes and creating a seamless connection between the court and the surrounding nature. These challenges were overcome through innovative design solutions, resulting in a harmonious and functional living space.

The Solaia Apartment has received recognition for its exceptional design. It was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2017, which honors well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. This award acknowledges the Solaia Apartment's integration of industry best practices and competent technical characteristics, contributing to a better world.

Yoshitaka Uchino and YDS Architects are the intellectual property owners and copyright holders of the Solaia Apartment design. Their commitment to creating spaces that embrace nature and enhance the living experience is evident in every aspect of this remarkable project.