Shift House / APOLLO Architects & Associates

Shift House / APOLLO Architects & Associates - Windows, FacadeShift House / APOLLO Architects & Associates - Windows, Facade, HandrailShift House / APOLLO Architects & Associates - FacadeShift House / APOLLO Architects & Associates - SofaShift House / APOLLO Architects & Associates - More Images+ 10

Tokyo, Japan

Text description provided by the architects. Surrounding the site in the outskirts of Tokyo is lush green and a slow-paced environment. The building was commissioned by a family composed of the husband who manages an insurance company, the wife who works as a patternmaker and their two children. It was planned as a SOHO, with a space for the yoga classes run by the wife added to the house.

Shift House / APOLLO Architects & Associates - Windows, Facade
© Masao Nishikawa

The distinguishing exterior consists of a wooden volume covered with a luminescent wall sitting on top of a base made of exposed concrete engrained with the texture of Japanese cedar.

Shift House / APOLLO Architects & Associates - Table
© Masao Nishikawa

In sharp contrast to the exterior that is closed to the outside world, an inner courtyard pierces the center of the structure. With a hollow center, the house is easy walk around and allows for the presence of family members to be felt from anywhere. The symbolic tree in the courtyard plays a central role in sustaining the equilibrium of the architecture.

Shift House / APOLLO Architects & Associates - Image 12 of 15
© Masao Nishikawa

On the ground floor, the living room and dining kitchen face each other across the courtyard while a sculptural staircase is positioned across the courtyard from the entrance. The staircase is symbolic in its presence and gives expansiveness to the spaces together with the courtyard.

Shift House / APOLLO Architects & Associates - Windows, Facade
© Masao Nishikawa

On the first floor, the multi-purpose room is used for yoga classes and for other activities, while small gardens are positioned around bedrooms providing light and openings.

Shift House / APOLLO Architects & Associates - Sofa
© Masao Nishikawa

Incorporating an open-air garden within it, the house makes it possible to fully enjoy the Japanese four seasons. The contrast between the external and the internal will help to keep a fresh mind in everyday life.

Shift House / APOLLO Architects & Associates - Windows
© Masao Nishikawa

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Cite: "Shift House / APOLLO Architects & Associates" 17 Jan 2011. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/103510/shift-house-apollo-architects-associates> ISSN 0719-8884

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