Compared to other micro homes in Japan, this three-story, 474 sq ft home could actually be considered quite accommodating. For much of the Western world however, it is still small by comparison. It’s a worthwhile study in design to see how all the necessary amenities can be contained in such a small space — especially considering that the home’s faceted and angled facade does not even take full advantage of its available building area.
The abstract expression ‘Mineral’ and ‘Reflection’ guided the home’s design process and the form of the building. Large skylights look in on the top floor and whole facets become transparent windows. Light filters down from higher windows through spaces in the floors along walls and reflects off surfaces to improve daylighting. The kitchen consists of a simple sink, counter top, small range, shelf, vent and mini refrigerator, and the bathroom is neat, contained steel room.
+ Atelier Tekuto
Via Abitare
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This striking micro home in Japan is an amazing example of efficient design for small-space living. Designed by Tokyo-based Atelier Tekuto, the faceted three-story home is located on a small corner lot near the center of Tokyo. Abstractly titled of the
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Atelier Tekuto, led by Yasuhiro Yamashita, designed this home for a client based on the principles of ‘Mineral’ and ‘Reflection’.
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The “Mineral” concept is expressed in the form of the house, which features a faceted design that looks like a cut diamond.
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The “Reflection” concept is expressed through the use of the facets on the inside that reflect light through transparent or translucent surfaces onto opaque surfaces.
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The white exterior makes the geometric house shine at night while reflecting heat during day.
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Light enters the home’s various windows and skylights and reflects throughout the interior spaces.
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The home stands three stories tall and is built on a 44 sq m (474 sq ft) building lot.
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The kitchen is quite simple by design and consists of a curved counter top, a sink, a small fridge, a two-burner stove, a vent, and a shelf.
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Light reflects from the top floor down into the main living area.
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The top floor gets its warm lighting from the skylights shining down from above.
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The bathroom is neatly tucked away and covered in reflective steel.
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The house is a study in small-space design. It makes great use of reflective surfaces and windows to bring in more light.
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The client even had room to ask for a covered parking space under his house, which can also serve as a courtyard when the car is away.
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As the sun travels throughout the day, the light also travels around the room, reflecting in different patterns.
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