OUGD505: Studio Brief 1 - Minimalist Japanese Design - Interior Design

As mentioned on my design practice blog, I decided to change my research topic to something much more visual, and also something I really enjoy - Minimalist Japanese Design

Initially, I want to look at all areas of minimal Japanese design - Product, graphic and interior design.  Here are examples of Interior Design. 

                                                                                                                                                                                    

Eaves House - mA Style

Utilizing different levels, angles, and a contrast of open spaces and cozy nooks, they have created two unique homes that reflect Japanese sensibility and minimalist comfort. The architects worked to create a space that celebrates both light and shadow. The way that the slats in the roof allow and block sunlight and different angles turns the light itself into an artistic show inside the home. 

                                                                                                                                                                                    

Schemata Architects - 63 Degrees

This Japanese architectural firm did wonders for the views of this single family home in the outskirts of Tokyo’s metropolis. Now the exterior of this home may look like a flat screen television on steroids but the intent was to set the house back from being too close to the street on its very small property. So what they decided to do was tilt the facade of the home 63 degrees which allowed for a completely different perspective of the street but also minimized the interior space of the home as well.

The entirely concrete building is a minimalists paradise inside and out. And the facade provides the only natural light that shines into the home. We only hope it’s this empty because it has yet to be occupied by tenants. Although by now we must be aware that the Japanese lifestyle is one based on minimal simplicity and self-reflection. And while this narrow apartment may look absurdly small to the rest of the world, it may not be that odd for what renters are used to in Japan. Talk about your ‘out of the box’ thinking…the Cherry Blossom is indeed a nice touch!

                                                                                                                                                                                    

Schemata Architects - Papaubble in Yokohama

"When we were asked for renovation, the client was in need of installing partition between kitchen and shop. We intend to design a space that resonates with movements of candy makers during the making process, and also movements of their products.
Our design focuses on relationships between concrete and formwork at various stages.
By making various configuration of concrete and formwork and inserting glass and tiles randomly, we create spaces to welcome and receive visitors, staff and products."

DATA
title : papabubble at YOKOHAMA
architect：Jo Nagasaka／Schemata Architects
project team: Ryosuke Yamamoto／Schemata Architects
address : Aioi-cho Naka-ku Yokohama Tokyo
usage：shop + kitchen
construction：TANK
floor area：70.10m²
completion：07/2013
photo：Takumi Ota