Architects: APOLLO Architects & Associates
Area: 103 m²
Year: 2015
Photography: Masao Nishikawa
Lead Architect: Satoshi Kurosaki
Structure Engineers: Masaki Structure Institute / Kenta Masaki
Facility Engineers: Naoki Matsumoto
Construction: Yamazen Kensetsu
City: Mitaka
Country: Japan
Nord, a residential house by APOLLO Architects & Associates in Mitaka, Japan. Completed in 2015, the house features a warm, wood-filled interior inspired by Alvar Aalto and Northern European churches. Located on a flag-shaped plot, the house maximizes its compact space with a complex roof design. The first floor holds private family areas, while the second floor offers an open-plan living space with a dynamic sloped ceiling. A loft resembling a treehouse serves as a children’s room, and skylights provide soft, natural light throughout the home.
This house, designed for a couple in their 40s and their two daughter, was inspired by the husband’s admiration for Alvar Aalto’s work and Northern European churches, which he encountered during his travels. The living areas are infused with a sense of warmth through the extensive se of wood, reminiscent of Japan’s countryside.
The site is a flag-shaped plot, bordered by neighboring homes on all sides. The strict setback regulations from three directions resulted in an interior space defined by a complex roof form.
The ground floor accommodates a large family bedroom, kitchen, bathrooms, and storage areas, all arranged compactly. The second floor offers an expansive, open-plan living space where the family can gather. The exposed rafters, made from paired SPF lumber, take advantage of the steep roof angle to create a dynamic ceiling, combining both bold and refined elements.
Natural light enters the living and dining area through a narrow north-facing skylight, filtering through the sloped rafters. A compact loft space above the ceiling connects loosely to the second floor, providing a cozy, treehouse-like for the children.
At night, cove lighting highlights the rafters, offering a dramatic contrast to natural daylight. The use of steel beams for the gable adds a sharp visual quality. The loft, without walls, is bordered by suspended handrails, creating a distinctive floating sensation in the space.
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Project Location
Address: Mitaka, Tokyo, Japan
Location is for general reference and may represent a city or country, not necessarily a precise address.
