Introducing Horizontal and Vertical, a custom-built home example by Mitsuhiro Kojima Architects, a Architect / Design office in 426-1-101 Higashisin-machi, Ota City, Gunma Prefecture

This residence is situated in a tranquil rural area characterized by expansive farmland, on an irregularly shaped plot defined by a highway and the embankment of a nearby river. The household comprises a couple, their children, one dog, and two cats. Their request was for a home where all members, including the pets who spend the most time there, could live joyfully and harmoniously. Thus, the dog and cats were considered equal clients in the design process.

I began by closely observing the behaviors of the dog and cats, following their movements throughout the site. Through the couple acting as interpreters, I gained insights into the pets’ interactions. They mentioned that the animals sometimes quarrel, so it was important to have the possibility of separation when needed. The dog desired open spaces to run freely both indoors and outdoors, while the curious cats sought a three-dimensional roaming environment with indoor vantage points to survey their surroundings.

To accommodate these needs, two distinct volumes were conceived: a single-story dwelling for the dog and a two-story house for the cats. These structures are spatially separated yet visually connected through a central courtyard, allowing sightlines to cross even when the animals are apart.

The dog’s domain is designed as a large open-plan space, flanked by a lawn garden and the courtyard, enabling ample room for running and play. The cats’ house is crafted to allow continuous circulation throughout, featuring dedicated windows tailored to feline perspectives. The orientation, scale, and height of these volumes vary, creating diverse views and experiences. This variability encourages the pets to move according to their interests and sunlight preferences, seeking their own comfort zones.

To the north of the site lie a highway and tunnel. Initially perceived as elements to be distanced from, the family’s experience spending nights on the property revealed a different perspective. They described the sound of tires on the highway as reminiscent of gentle sea waves. Embracing this positive association, the embankment was appreciated as a lush green buffer, and the tunnel’s passing car lights became a dynamic borrowed landscape, adding movement and intrigue.

Situated on this uniquely triangular plot, the two houses are angled thoughtfully with respect to these views. The residual outdoor spaces transform into gardens with rich character, which in turn enrich the interior environments.

A home conceived from the needs of dogs and cats ultimately led to a design that fosters a closer, more harmonious relationship between people and the richness of their surrounding environment.