"SKY MISSION"series YOKOHAMA CHIGASAKIHIGASHI HOUSE

The traditional Kyoto townhouse (Kyo-machiya) embodies wisdom that enhances urban living by embracing natural elements. With a garden at its core, it invites light, wind, and nature into daily life, fostering comfort, respect for nature, and a refined aesthetic. However, modern homes have shifted toward insulation from the outside world, prioritizing performance. Architect Shin Takamatsu, based in Kyoto, designed this residence to revive the old way of life, blending tradition with nature to create a more emotionally rich living experience.A house cannot exist without a physical, abstract, and poetic relationship with the sky. This residence takes on the mission of integrating life with the sky. At its heart is a courtyard, an "empty room," surrounded by pristine white spaces. Residents flow between the courtyard and these surrounding areas, choosing from various lifestyles: living with the courtyard as the centerpiece or blending the courtyard and surrounding spaces into a single room. From any point within the house, a slight upward glance reveals the sky, constantly reminding inhabitants of its presence. Openings around the outer perimeter are perpendicular to the indoor spaces, while each room opens extensively to the courtyard, filling the interior with unique, indirect light. This light-filled atmosphere remains valuable even without artificial lighting.To create a sense of connection with the sky, transcending the human scale, all elements indicating dimensions, such as fixtures and equipment, were removed, challenging the perception of space. The skyline, reminiscent of rugged mountain ranges, encourages passersby to look up, creating moments where even the public can pause and experience the sky.This house offers highly flexible living spaces, adaptable to various families, transcending time, generations, and personal preferences. Its design, which captures natural light and wind, allows for a comfortable living environment without reliance on energy. The ever-changing scenery, the sounds of birds, and the movement of clouds enrich the emotional experience of those who live here.