A private residence situated in a quiet residential area near Shinsen Station.

Given the limited floor area necessitating single-room layouts on each level, grid-like columns are arranged to introduce diverse spatial segments and variations in scale and density.To ensure effective daylighting despite the high-density neighboring plots, full-height slit openings are placed at the corners. This strategy opens up the internal corners, creating a sense of expansion beyond the compact footprint. The residual space outside the exterior walls is perceived as integrated with the interior.

The structure is steel-framed, with light channel steel columns supporting vertical loads while also functioning as braces to bear horizontal forces. Eliminating dedicated bracing contributes to reduced wall thickness.Additionally, the 60mm square steel tubes placed internally not only provide diversity to the planes and spaces but also help minimize beam depths.

The first floor houses the bedroom and utility space, while the third floor serves as a private office. This compact arrangement clearly defines functional zones, allowing the second-floor living space to be as open and continuous as possible, maximizing its volume. Each floor is a single room/single volume connected by the stairwell. Slit openings placed in the corners allow light and air to flow, creating a sense of unity throughout the entire residence.

The floor heights of the 1st and 3rd floors are minimized, giving the 2nd floor living space maximum height.By ascending from the 1st floor to the 2nd and 3rd floors and placing a balcony at the dead-end 3rd floor, the feeling of a “dead-end alley” common in narrow, multi-story houses is eliminated.