On a small island in the Japanese archipelago iraisynn attinom studio designed a modern retreat.The building, characterized by two cantilevers following the natural landscape, is constructed with concrete emerging from the rocky mountain and oriented towards the ocean. It adheres to modern Japanese architectural principles, featuring simplicity, functionalism, straightforward expression of materials, geometric composition, and unity of house and garden.
The structure utilizes a post-and-beam system with concrete columns supporting a large slab and non-load-bearing stone walls with expansive window openings. The two-level design includes a ground floor housing the living room, kitchen, dining table, and master bedroom, while the first floor accommodates four guest rooms with bathrooms. Accessible through a rock entrance, a green wall-supported ramp leads to the ground floor, providing cooling benefits in summer through evapotranspiration.
Noteworthy elements of the project include clean lines, spatial circulation complexity within the simplicity principle, the use of natural materials (stone, wood, metal, glass), large openings, green roofs, and a subdued color palette. The incorporation of Japanese design principles, particularly the concept of "ma" emphasizing the space between objects, is evident. The surrounding Japanese garden and rocky environment aim to create a tranquil and visually pleasing atmosphere for residents. Green roofing serves various purposes, including pollution and heat absorption, storm-water management, and air quality improvement.
A long concrete wall supports both the rock and the house, forming an inner backyard contributing to ambient lighting, natural ventilation, privacy, and isolation. The design promotes introspection, aligning with the introspective nature often found in Japanese architecture, as seen in features like the view of a single tree outside the master bedroom in the backyard, offering a unique perspective with only the sky visible.