In Saijo, Ehime Prefecture, a region known for vast flatland landscape, Hayato Komatsu architects has completed the design of a two-storey family dwelling. ‘House in Shinyashiki’ — is bordered by Nakayama river where it flows towards the mount Ishizuchi. The client requested that the property would take full advantage of this rich environment.
The direction in where the wind passes –east to west– influenced Hayato Komatsu architects‘ positioning of the structure. This lead the building sitting to face east and the form itself, divided into and to and opening out into a fan shape. The dramatic sloping roof runs all the way until it meets the ground plane, enabling it to act as a fence to block the view of the neighboring homes. This layout forms the generous terrace area that is connected to the living room and protected by deep eaves, making it a space for relaxation and gathering.
The interior is focused on the ground floor; despite the living room, dining, and the Japanese style room being grouped together in an open plan space, there is an increase in floor heights of 400mm between each.This offers a changing perspective of views and at the same time, distinguishes each program without the need for walls and partitioning.