Tokyo-based NOT Architects Studio has designed a ‘Scooping Scenery’ house in Oto City, Tokyo. The house is located in a residential area close to the downtown core of the city, with the north side connected to the road and a garden on the east side. Lisa Ono, the practice’s principal, wanted to maximize the usage of space due to a small footprint.
The house features painted silver walls, uniquely shaped windows and openings, and open halls and doorways. A glass roof rests on top to allow an abundance of light to enter the house. Unique curves and forms give the house a fresh, contemporary look.
“When I usually walk around my neighbourhood, I see a similar cityscape. However, when I squint, there are moments that touch my heart, such as the trees planted in the garden, the weeds growing on the roadside, sunlight filtering through trees along a street, and the sky seen from between the buildings,” says Lisa Ono. “[This design] scoop ups the small sceneries scattered in such a city and spends time with them.”
Image Credit: Yasuhiro Takagi
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Compact Living
- Designing small living spaces that maximize the usage of space for urban dwellers.
- Contemporary Architecture
- Creating unique shapes and designs to give a modern and fresh look to small residences.
- Abundance of Light
- Incorporating natural light and glass roofs to bring brightness to small spaces.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Real Estate
- Developing and selling compact homes for urban areas with a focus on maximizing usable space.
- Architecture and Design
- Providing design services for small, unique living spaces that incorporate natural light and distinctive shapes.
- Renovation Services
- Providing renovation services to turn small living spaces into modern, bright environments for urban living.
