House O by Kimiyoshi Sasaki + Takayuki Bamba

Completed in 2020, this residence and gallery transcend conventional living spaces through a bold yet minimalistic interpretation of "life in nature."

The central premise of House O is rooted in the owner's vision to create a dwelling that not only nestles into its natural surroundings but becomes an intrinsic part of them. The architects have responded with a concrete, rough dome that serves as both shelter and gallery, encircling a spacious courtyard. This design element functions as the heart of the home, fostering an intimate connection between the residents and the ever-changing outdoor environment.

Architecturally, the dome’s gentle curvature harmonizes with the natural topography, respecting existing trees and the site's elevation shifts. The structure features a large circular opening at its center, where the ceiling soars to its highest point. This design choice ensures that the interior spaces remain in constant dialogue with the courtyard, allowing natural light and weather conditions to dynamically influence the ambiance within.

Concrete, chosen for both its structural and aesthetic qualities, is cast in a clay formwork filled with local earth and sand. This technique imparts a tactile, organic texture to the dome's surface, reflecting the uneven terrain and creating a series of quiet, reverberation-dampened rooms. The material's raw finish further blurs the boundaries between the built environment and nature, making the house appear as a natural extension of the landscape.

An intriguing aspect of House O is the ongoing, hands-on involvement of the owner, who is also an interior designer. This collaborative process between architect and owner imbues the space with a unique, evolving character. Daily extensions and renovations by the owner echo the act of gardening, enhancing the home’s organic growth and integration with its surroundings. Over time, the house is envisioned to become increasingly enshrouded in greenery, akin to an open cave that melds with nature.

The architects' approach, summarized by their invitation to "eat in the courtyard, read a book on the roof, or fall asleep staring at the night sky," underscores their commitment to creating an architecture that actively engages with its environment. This ethos transforms House O from a mere residence into a living, breathing entity—a space where nature is not just observed but experienced and embraced.

Photography: Yasuhiro Takagi
Text: Zuzanna Gasior

→ https://thisispaper.com/mag/house-o-kimiyoshi-sasaki-takayuki-bamba