A Renovated Kyoto Machiya: The Y Residence
This property is a renovated Kyoto Machiya (traditional townhouse) located in a crank-shaped alleyway, situated between Kyoto Station and the city center. The renovation was undertaken for a family of three—a couple and their daughter. The husband, who works in structural design, collaborated with architectural colleagues to create a highly original living space.
The renovation transformed the inner two units of a three-unit row house on the north side of the alley. Leveraging the building's shallow depth, the design opens up towards the southern alley, creating an airy and open atmosphere. On sunny days, opening the custom-made exterior fittings blurs the boundary between inside and out, allowing pleasant breezes to flow through, carrying seasonal scents, while soft music from the audio system gently spills outside. The ambiance resembles a café in a Southeast Asian alley, offering a comfortable and open feel.
A deliberate reduction in floor area allowed for the creation of a double-height living room, from which constant light pours in, softly unifying the first and second floors. At night, closing the exterior fittings ensures privacy. Furthermore, the light from daily life that leaks through the polycarbonate panels of the fittings illuminates the alleyway, providing a sense of reassurance to the neighbors. Notably, the shared washroom in the alley was also renovated at the same time. This home is a unique and wonderful dwelling that values the alleyway community, cherishes the family's own lifestyle, and brings happiness to those involved.
The property is located in Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto City. This central area is steeped in history and is a short distance from the iconic Kyoto Tower, a major landmark offering panoramic views of the ancient capital. The neighborhood exemplifies the intricate network of narrow lanes and traditional architecture that defines Kyoto's unique urban fabric.
