Newly Built Two-Generation Family Home in Kamioka, Gifu
This newly constructed house was built for a family where the son's household returned to the family home, creating a two-generation residence. During the planning stage, the owners expressed concerns about the house receiving strong afternoon sun and becoming very hot. To address this, a unique design feature was implemented: a raised roof structure (越屋根) with a high window (高窓) was installed above the staircase. This creates a vertical airflow path from the first floor up through the roof, effectively venting hot summer air and alleviating the heat.
The heating system features an electric thermal storage heater (電気蓄熱暖房機), elegantly enclosed with lattice doors. This system ensures the home remains gently warm whenever the son returns from his night-shift work, welcoming him with comfort as soon as he opens the front door. The living, dining, and kitchen (LDK) area showcases extensive use of Japanese cypress (桧), with the ceiling finished in cedar planks (杉板貼り). The master bedroom ceiling incorporates a traditional 'muso' window (無双窓), which, when opened during hot weather, allows air to flow out through the high window in the hip roof (腰屋根).
The interior ambiance is defined by the calming scent of cypress and the serene atmosphere of natural wood, creating a welcoming environment for guests. Thoughtful details include a headboard shelf (枕棚) with its shelf board crafted from a single wide cedar plank arranged in a slatted, 'sunoko' style. A touch of sentiment is preserved with the reuse of a cherished 'ranma' (transom) from the family's previous home.
