【Published on Architizer (an online site based in New York). 2014/6】

This house was erected on the coastal side of the Sea of Japan for a family of three. The client wanted to live in a house with large windows looking out to sea; however, in winter very strong winds blow every day in this part of Japan. The design therefore required considerations different from the Pacific side which has a milder winter.

A wind barrier was constructed just below the horizon line, highlighting the horizon, and adding new value to the view. A stone garden is prepared inside the wind barrier, and the sea is incorporated as a background landscape in the garden.

The shell of this house is designed to divert strong winds in winter, and the house stands out against the surrounding nature. The color of the outer wall was chosen to match the neighboring beach, and has aged to harmonize with the surrounding landscape as time passes. In winter, the snow-covered stone garden increases the level of abstraction, making the horizon more beautiful.


Purpose: Private residence | Location: Joetsu City, Niigata Prefecture | Completion: 2013 | New construction | Structural scale: 2-story wooden building | Total floor area: 180.70�u