Embracing Urban Living
Situated along a bustling sidewalk, the House with a Nostalgic Grid stands as a testament to innovative urban living. Designed by Yasutaka Nakanishi, this unique residence redefines the relationship between architecture and the city, offering a blend of functionality and nostalgia.
Versatile Design
The ground floor serves as a versatile space, seamlessly transitioning between living, dining, and retail areas. Large openings facing the sidewalk create a welcoming atmosphere, while “openwork lattice shelves” provide privacy and control over the external view. These shelves, crafted from factory-pressed laminated plywood, offer a unique aesthetic that transforms with the changing light, adding character to the town both day and night.
Linear Aesthetics
Throughout the interior, laminated plywood elements create a cohesive aesthetic, from built-in furniture to wall and ceiling edges. Horizontal and vertical interwoven lattice shelves define the living spaces, blurring the boundaries between furniture and architecture. Each floor features living rooms characterized by these lattice shelves, offering glimpses of the outside world through their unique configurations.
Tranquil Retreats
Adjacent to the ground floor living area, a small garden oasis provides a private sanctuary, shielded from passersby. This space serves as both a relaxation spot and an outdoor entrance, adapting to the evolving needs of urban living, including pandemic-related lifestyle changes. Additionally, a rooftop garden offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, providing a tranquil escape throughout the seasons.
Elemental Connectivity
The design prioritizes connectivity and sensory experiences, exemplified by the staircase atrium. This narrow space allows voices, air, and light to flow freely, creating a dynamic environment that reflects the residents’ presence and the changing natural phenomena. Suspended paper balloons add a whimsical touch, swaying gently in the atrium’s draft and enhancing the house’s ethereal atmosphere.
The House with a Nostalgic Grid is more than just a residence; it’s a celebration of tradition, innovation, and urban living, inviting residents to rediscover the beauty and charm of city life.