House in Kurume by GOYA SCHRÖDER & Associates

A Contemporary Japanese Urban Dwelling

The House in Kurume is a thoughtfully designed detached residence that explores alternative typologies for urban Japanese housing. Rooted in traditional wooden frame construction, it reinterprets the historic Machiya (townhouse) and Nōka (farmhouse) styles to fit modern city life.

Compact Site, Intelligent Design

Situated in a residential neighborhood near the center of Kurume City, the site measures less than 200 m² due to land subdivision—an increasingly common urban condition in Japan. Despite the narrow plot, the architects designed a home that balances privacy, light, and connection with nature.

Houses on such compact sites often suffer from overexposure or introverted interiors with minimal windows. In contrast, the House in Kurume achieves discreet openness by carefully positioning and sizing openings, creating a welcoming yet private atmosphere.

Interior and Exterior Harmony

The interior is oriented to the west, while the garden and balcony face east, allowing the garden to enjoy natural light and a sense of openness. A continuous wooden structure wraps both interior and exterior spaces, integrating screens and adjustable openings for light, airflow, and visual connection.

The interior plan follows a traditional Japanese layout, dividing the rectangle into 9-foot squares. By elevating the main living space to the upper floors, the design provides spacious, well-lit rooms with privacy and seamless views of the surrounding landscape. The large southern window welcomes winter sunlight while the deep eave protects the home from summer heat.

Resilient and Contextual Design

Located just 500 meters from the Chikugo River, the elevated living spaces also reduce flood risk. Externally, silver facade panels reflect garden greenery and the changing sunlight, harmonizing the home with the industrial cityscape of Kurume while adding a sense of lightness and elegance.

All Photographs are works of Mariko Yasaka