‘GAPs’ by japanese firm NRM architects office (shunichiro ninomiya and tomoko morodome)
is a three-storey residential house for two families in aichi, japan. the aim of the design
was to meet the different needs and requirements of the two different generations:
the elder couple sought a traditional space with ample storage while the younger couple
desired a more modern dwelling.



facade


typical to minimalist design in japan, the house offers no windows or openings on
the street side but instead features a section of translucent panels on the ground level.
depending on the time of day, the colour of the light that glows through the panels gives
the facade a different character.



street view



the house in the evening


though the structure houses both families in a seemingly singular mass, the two spaces
are independent of one another with separate entrances and no connection in between
save for the void of the courtyard. the first level, which was designed for the elderly couple,
offers a bed room, separate kitchen and living/dining space, and a washitsu (japanese-style room)
with tatami flooring next to the courtyard.



from the courtyard looking into the washitsu



looking up from the courtyard



second level living space


the second level features floor-to-ceiling glazing on the back side, transferring natural light
throughout the entire length of the house. the void of the courtyard is also flanked by
glass to elongate the interior space as well as to illuminate the living space. the third level,
which accommodates two small bedrooms and a terrace, looks over the living area via
a small atrium.



second level dining and living area under an atrium



stairs to the third level


the design incorporates careful placement and treatment of artificial light to not only
brighten the space but to connect and lengthen the interior. strips of light run along
the wall and ledge of the overlook, washing the white walls with luminance.



the ledge of the overlook is lined with strips of light



looking down from the third level



the lighting washes up the walls



space is extended with the use of reflection and light to the second-level bedroom across the void of the courtyard



entrance area clad in translucent panels



floor plans

project info:

architects: shunichiro ninomiya, tomoko morodome
structure: wood structure
storeys: 3
site area: 190.03 m2
building area: 89.43 m2
total floor area: 205.56 m2