Concrete and Timber Blocks Shape House in Tsurumi-ku
FujiwaraMuro Architects designed House in Tsurumi-ku, a family home in Osaka, featuring a series of overlapping concrete blocks and volumes clad in timber battens. Positioned on a sloping street corner, this blocky structure integrates into a plinth embedded in the plot.
Interior Layout Maximizes Light and Privacy
The home’s design incorporates gaps and courtyards between its blocky forms, allowing natural light to penetrate the interior while ensuring privacy from the bustling street outside. These courtyards create sightlines between rooms on different levels and help illuminate the space.
Transition from Renovation to New Construction
Originally intended as a renovation, the project transitioned to new construction due to the limitations of the existing building. FujiwaraMuro Architects replaced the old structure to meet the required floor areas, resulting in a more efficient use of space.
Neutral and Contrasting Interior Palette
Internally, the house features a light grey material palette complemented by timber battens, enhancing the reflection of light and creating a sense of depth. The neutral tones of the concrete are contrasted with warm timber surfaces, adding a layered feel to the interior design.
Open-Plan Living with Courtyard Views
The ground floor includes an open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area that wraps around a central courtyard. Timber accents and pastel pink nooks add warmth to the space, which also provides access to the upper level via a wooden staircase.
Bedrooms and Corridors on the Upper Level
Four bedrooms are located on the upper floor, accessed via corridors illuminated by courtyards. Floor-to-ceiling glazing along the voids enhances natural light and offers views of the internal planting, maintaining a connection with the outside environment.
FujiwaraMuro Architects’ Unique Approach
House in Tsurumi-ku reflects FujiwaraMuro Architects’ commitment to integrating natural light and privacy through innovative design. The studio, founded by Shintaro Fujiwara and Yoshio Muro in 2002, continues to push boundaries with projects that blend traditional materials and modern architectural forms.
Photos: Katsuya Taira
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