The Wooden Heart of Sugi House
A curved timber volume defines the interior of Sugi House, a unique residence designed by Ujizono Architects. Nestled in Kyoto, near Yoshida Shrine, this family home spans a compact 83.91-square-meter site, offering 94.87 square meters of living space. Completed in January 2026, the house presents a modest exterior with profound interior innovations.
A Subtle yet Striking Exterior
The house appears as a suspended wooden box over a recessed entrance and parking area. Vertical board cladding creates a fine texture, interrupted by a singular rectangular window, adding character without overwhelming its neighbors. A strip of glazing above the roofline subtly enhances light entry, while shadows under the upper floor add depth.
Contrasting Interior Spaces
Architects Kazuki Ujigawa and Mirai Ozono designed a harmonious contrast between the levels. The ground floor features a hallway connecting bedrooms and a bathroom. Upstairs, a more open plan under a sloping ceiling unites living, cooking, and dining areas, creating a spacious communal setting within the home.
Artful Separation and Light in the Timber Design
The curved timber core defines spaces without enclosed walls, differentiating the living and kitchen areas, while a mezzanine stair hides within its contour. The kitchen’s lowered ceiling subtly distinguishes functional spaces. High-level windows flood the interior with light while preserving privacy from adjacent properties.
For more innovative architectural designs that utilize timber, explore the Innovative Timber Pavilion in Italy for its harmony with nature and community.
Fostering Family Connection
Visual connections through floor openings and adjustable curtains allow flexible interaction and privacy among residents in this distinctive home. The design promotes awareness and interaction, with privacy adaptable to activities, thanks to the thoughtful layout of the curved core.
The Power of the Curved Core
This central feature provides organization and focus, enabling distinct zones without hallways. It offers the right balance of definition and openness for a family’s daily life to seamlessly integrate within the living space.
A Thoughtful Architectural Gestalt
Sugi House masterfully balances form and function. The curved timber core is the ingenious solution that defines space, fosters connectivity, and offers flexibility, making it ideal for modern family living, inspired by principles of Japanese architecture.
To see how compact living spaces embrace nature, check out the Elevated Timber Retreat in Ecuador for its unique blend with the surrounding environment.
Source: yankodesign.com
Frequently asked questions
What defines the interior of Sugi House?
A curved timber volume defines the interior of Sugi House, providing both organization and focus while enabling distinct zones without hallways.
How does the exterior of Sugi House present itself?
The house appears as a suspended wooden box over a recessed entrance and parking area, with vertical board cladding and a singular rectangular window adding character.
What architectural features promote family interaction in Sugi House?
Visual connections through floor openings and adjustable curtains allow flexible interaction and privacy, enabling awareness and interaction among residents.
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