Located in a residential neighborhood of Kanazawa, north of Kyoto, Shota Nakanishi Architects collaborated with structural architect Hirofumi Ohno to realize a house where its inhabitants can live in close contact with the natural elements.
The design follows traditional Hokuriku architecture by reimagining the doma, a place for interaction with guests, as an indoor garden below a large roof. The roof protects people from the elements while allowing for living in the open.
The doma is traditionally separated by large fittings. They can be adjusted to dim the sound of the wind or rumblings of thunder. Residents can enjoy the beautiful scenery while sheltered from the wind and the rain.
The striking galvalume roof protects from direct sunlight in the summer, while window openings are precisely placed to let in winter solstice sunlight into the warm wooden interiors.
