New House in Tokyo, Residence Japan, Japanese Home Design, Property

Mita Residence, Tokyo

Contemporary Property in Japan – design by YJP architecture / Toyoda & Associates

23 Sep 2012

Mita Residence Tokyo

Contemporary House in Tokyo

Design: YJP architecture + Toyoda and Associates

photograph : 45g Photography

Mita Residence is situated in central Tokyo on a sloped street which connects a busy commercial artery and a quiet residential area. The typical buildings along the hilly street are larger scale condominium complexes. The challenge was to place the house within bigger scale buildings seamlessly, and at the same time, to ensure a comfortable and spacious living environment on its small lot of just over 100 square meters.

photos : 45g Photography

By carefully considering the scale, materials, and colors to correspond to its context, Mita Residence was designed to blend in with its neighboring buildings while conforming to the tight envelope of the zoning regulation. To maximize the utilization of the lot, instead of providing housing for one family on a typical small lot, the design aimed for a more efficient possibility of housing for up to 3 families without sacrificing the living quality. The floor plan and unit division are flexible which can adapt to specific needs, while free flowing spaces are created to allow plenty of natural lighting, ventilation and openness.

photos : 45g Photography

The basic form of the building is derived from typical “shop house” which can be seen throughout Tokyo. Traditional Japanese elements such as noren (shop entrance curtain) and shoji (partition screen) are also integrated in the design. Its interior expresses simplicity yet the soft texture and neutral tone throughout the house generates the comfort of living and warm atmosphere. The exposed concrete wall at the living/dining area is textured with horizontal wood pattern to soften the stiffness and coldness of concrete. The double height windows in the living/dining area bring in abundant natural light from the light court and give a sense of openness.

The primary objective of this project was to create a harmonious dwelling in a busy city environment. To achieve this goal, much close attention was paid in terms of context and details, and it inevitably has brought out the outcome to be a subtle, high quality residential home.

photos : 45g Photography

Mita Residence Tokyo – Building Information

Project Name: Mita Residence
Location: Tokyo, Japan
Architects: YJP architecture + Toyoda and Associates
Photographer: 45g Photography
Site Area: 1,162 sqft
Building Area: 650 sqft
Total Floor Area: 2,530 sqft
Date of Completion: 31 Aug 2009
Type of Project: Residential
Construction: Concrete Structure, 4 Stories + Basement

Mita House Tokyo images / information from YJP architecture

Location: Tokyo, Japan