Introducing KATANA, a custom-built home example by JYU ARCHITECT, a Architect / Design office in 2-19-19 Nakane, Meguro-ku, Tokyo

This residence was conceived on a compact 25-tsubo (approximately 83 square meters) site, providing a living space of about 35 tsubo (approximately 116 square meters). Despite the limited footprint, it is an urban courtyard house featuring a central courtyard, grating balconies, and an accessible rooftop, harmoniously integrating spatial openness within a dense city fabric.

As a three-story wooden structure located within a quasi-fireproof zone, this project marks our office’s first application of the newly established certified fireproof window frames. Consequently, the types and dimensions of openings are strictly regulated. However, through meticulous design of fenestration and detailing, we have achieved effective apertures that secure privacy amidst the closely packed surrounding buildings while enhancing spatial quality.

The approximately 9-tsubo (about 30 square meters) built-in garage accommodates two cars as well as motorcycles for recreational use. Internally, the residence incorporates varied spatial elements such as stepped floors and sloped ceilings, which, along with thoughtful connections to the external environment, create diverse spatial experiences that enrich comfort throughout the home.

The exterior façade asserts a subtle yet distinct presence within the eclectic streetscape of densely arranged three-story buildings through its folded wall planes, preventing the structure from being visually lost in the urban context. Structurally, the building achieves an elevated seismic performance rating by employing one of the most ductile structural boards available on the market, combined with a vibration control system, resulting in a wood-frame structure that represents the highest standard in seismic resistance and mitigation. Site area: 83.12 m² (25.14 tsubo)
Total floor area: 142.04 m² (42.97 tsubo)
Contractor: Enaka Construction Co., Ltd.