Renovated Kyoto Machiya Residence

This property is a renovated Kyoto townhouse (Kyomachiya) located in a quiet, crank-shaped alley between Kyoto Station and the city center. The renovation was undertaken by a family of three, a couple and their daughter. The husband, who normally works in structural design, collaborated with architect friends to create a highly original living space.

The building is a renovation of the rear two units of a three-unit row house on the north side of the alley. Taking advantage of the shallow depth, the space opens up towards the south-facing alley. On sunny days, opening the custom-made exterior fittings blurs the boundary between inside and out, allowing a pleasant breeze to pass through and carrying the scents of the season, while gentle music from the audio system softly drifts outside. The atmosphere is reminiscent of a cafe in a Southeast Asian alley, offering an open and comfortable feel.

A living room with a double-height ceiling, achieved by intentionally reducing floor area, allows light to pour in constantly, softly uniting the first and second floors. At night, closing the exterior fittings ensures privacy, and the light of daily life filtering through the polycarbonate surfaces of the fittings illuminates the alley, providing a sense of security for the neighbors. At the same time, the shared washbasin in the alley was also renovated. This home values the alley community, cherishes the residents' lifestyle, and brings happiness to those involved, resulting in a unique and wonderful dwelling.

Use: Residence. Design: Jun Yanagimuro, Miwako Uoya, Saori Hattori, Daisuke Hattori, Takahiro Kai. Land Area: 40.98 sqm. Area: Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto City.