"SKY MISSION"IN THE SKY Yokohama Tsuzuki house

Traditional Japanese homes, such as those represented by Kyomachiya, embody wisdom that made urban living in densely built environments comfortable. A garden was placed at the center of the house, allowing natural elements like light and wind to flow into daily life, fostering both comfort and a sense of respect for nature, cultivating a unique aesthetic. However, this way of living has largely been lost, and modern homes, in their pursuit of functionality, have become disconnected from the outside world. Architect Shin Takamatsu, an expert in traditional Japanese homes, designed this building to revive the old way of living, blending tradition with energy-efficient, emotionally rich living. A house cannot exist without a physical, abstract, and poetic relationship with the sky. This residence takes on the mission of integrating life with the sky. The house stretches across the long lot, with the largest possible courtyard placed centrally, within the legal limits. All rooms and corridors are arranged around three sides of the courtyard, linking every space to it, transforming the house into a single room centered around the sky. This allows for various lifestyles, such as one where the courtyard serves as the focal point and the rooms form the surrounding environment, or where the courtyard and rooms unify into one large space. Windows facing outward are limited, with most oriented toward the courtyard. Upon entering, visitors are drawn through a narrow, dark corridor, leading to the bright courtyard, where the infinite sky welcomes them, evoking a sense of being embraced by the sky itself. The rooms are spaced across the courtyard at a suitable distance, allowing for a sense of connection without sacrificing privacy. This flexible home adapts to various family lifestyles across time, generations, and personal preferences, ensuring long-term use. By incorporating natural light and wind, the house creates a comfortable environment without relying on energy. The changing seasons, birdsong, and passing clouds enrich the emotional experience of its residents.