# Edifice-Esque Small Homes A Deceptively Small House That Looks Like an Apartment Building By Marissa Liu | Published 2010-02-05 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/deceptively-small-house References: [whatwedoissecret.org](http://whatwedoissecret.org/madebyblog/2010/02/nonchans-house/#more-6267) & [aath.jp](http://aath.jp/works_non.html) This 1,023 square foot Japanese residence is a deceptively small house. At first glance this home could be mistaken for a compact apartment building but is in reality a [two-story multi-generational family home](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ikigai-collective-yamabiko). Designed by Masatoshi Shikada and Kaoru Kuzukawa of a.a.+ H, this deceptively small house can be found in [Tochigi Prefecture](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/kumagaya) in the Kantō region on the island of Honshū, Japan. The many windows and airy colouring help the deceptively small house feel as roomy on the inside as it looks from the outside. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.1/10 - Popularity: 51% | Activity: 33% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/design) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Multi-generational Living:** This trend highlights the increasing need for homes that can accommodate multiple generations under one roof. - **Optical Illusion Architecture:** The use of design elements that create optical illusions in architecture is an innovative trend that challenges traditional perceptions of space and size. - **Efficient Space Utilization:** The focus on making the most out of limited space is a growing trend, particularly in densely populated areas where square footage comes at a premium. ### Where This Applies - **Real Estate:** The real estate industry can benefit from this trend by developing and marketing homes that cater to multi-generational living arrangements. - **Architecture and Design:** Architects and designers have an opportunity to explore and implement optical illusion techniques in their projects to create visually striking and space-efficient structures. - **Interior Design:** The interior design industry can capitalize on the need for efficient space utilization by offering creative solutions and innovative furniture designs for small homes. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Japan-Inspired Tiny Houses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mizuho.md) - [Compact Japanese Moden Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nozawa.md) - [Compact Corner Residences](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/modus-architect.md) - [Japanese Inn-Inspired Micro Apartments](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/la-tarta-piccola.md) - [Compact Timber Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/akio-isshiki-architects.md) - [Hidden Resort Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/stealth-1.md) - [Modern Multi-Purpose Japanese Buildings](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/muiltipurpose-japanese-building.md) - [Temple-Inspired Idyllic Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/k-residence-1.md) - [Adjustable Japanese Studio Apartments](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/building-frame-of-the-house.md)