Spiraling platforms create a sense of connection in this Osaka home, which is full of light and space.
From the outside, you’d never guess that more than two, even three, storeys could fit inside this unassuming steel warehouse.
But take a peek inside to find a jaw-dropping 13 platforms designed to evoke a feeling of closeness and seamless connection for the family of three who calls this place home.
Minimalistic wooden stairs connect the 13 floors. Picture: ShinkenchikuSha
The family who resides in the Miyamoto digs longed to feel close to each other, no matter where they were in their house.
“Private rooms were not needed because they feel that it is lonely to withdraw into one’s space,” says Yo Shimada of Tato Architects, the firm who designed the home.
Despite the entirety of the abode sitting in what’s essentially one room, the spiraling platforms help to create a division in the space, and yes, bathrooms are separated from the living spaces.
Light pours in through the rooftop terraces. Picture: ShinkenchikuSha
From the entrance level, which houses space for coats and bikes, the floors spiral upwards from two opposite sides of the space. They then meet in the middle at a central living area, before splitting once more on the climb towards two rooftop terraces.
“By using this combination of two spirals, we were able to create multiple paths inside the house that allow different room compartments and changes in the circulation, equipping the house to be able to accommodate changes in the lifestyle of the client,” says the firm.
Privacy was not an issue for this family of three. Picture: ShinkenchikuSha
The home sits within the fire prevention district and adheres to the structural requirements local to the spot. The top seven levels are suspended with 20mm steel rods from the roof beam, and the bottom six floors are supported by 75mm square steel pipes.
What’s more, the dwellings sit 70cm apart, which makes them just the right height to be conveniently used as tables and shelves. Wooden steps featuring chic black framework connect the levels, and add a touch of warmth to an otherwise industrial space.
The clients wanted to embrace their belongings in the open. Picture: ShinkenchikuSha
Sunlight floods in through triangular-shaped skylights, and each level is illuminated by more subtly placed windows designed not to interrupt the flow of the many floors.
It has no storage (a request of the client) and no doors, but for some reason, this doesn’t bother them one little bit. Would you want to live here?
You’d never guess what this home holds from the outside. Picture: ShinkenchikuSha
Originally published as This Japanese home fits 13 storeys into one room by Katie Skelly. Author at realestate.com.au.
