Space-Conscious Japanese Family Home in Wood and Concrete

Think of space-saving interiors we often imagine quirky desks that disappear into the wall, Murphy beds that only come out at night and uber-creative shelving which seamlessly blends into the backdrop. But there are times when smart utilization of available square footage is all you need to create a space-savvy home that serves the needs of a modern family. House in Takatsuki is a Japanese residence that draws you in with its innate sense of minimalism, contrasting wooden and concrete surfaces that blend warmth with steely, cold finishes and a large bookshelf that stretches across two floors!

Kitchen-and-living-area-with-bookshelf-in-the-backdrop — Kitchen and living area with bookshelf in the backdrop

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Top-level-kids-room-and-reading-station-217x155

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Designed by FujiwaraMuro Architects, the house welcomes you with a traditional Japanese sitting area, leading to a living space, kitchen and dining. The open plan living aims to be as unconstrained as possible and décor is kept to a bare minimum to accentuate the sense of spaciousness. A custom wooden kitchen island with gas range and dining space next to it becomes the ‘social zone’ of the interior while a wrought-iron hood above adds even more textural contrast. It is the top level that holds the kids’ sleeping area with a wall of bunk beds, master bedroom, bathrooms and a long reading desk that stretches along the length of the hallway.

Large-bookshelf-in-the-backdrop-brings-color-to-the-interior — Large bookshelf in the backdrop brings color to the interior

Multi-level-interior-of-the-Japanese-home — Multi-level interior of the Japanese home

Slim-staircase-in-front-of-the-bookshelf-connects-the-various-levels — Slim staircase in front of the bookshelf connects the various levels

Spacious-double-height-kitchen-of-the-house-also-serves-as-the-gathering-space-for-entire-family — Spacious, double-height kitchen of the house also serves as the gathering space for entire family

Sunlight-illuminates-the-kitchen — Sunlight illuminates the kitchen

Colorful wall art, books and indoor plants bring color to this modern house in Takatsuki, where the terrace serves as a relaxation zone and space for drying clothes under the sun. An exquisite home that responds to the specific needs of its homeowners… [Photography: Toshiyuki Yano]