House Surrounding the Courtyard by Studio Velocity

A Multi-Generational Home in Okazaki, Japan

The House Surrounding the Courtyard by Studio Velocity is an innovative residential project in Okazaki City, Aichi Prefecture, designed to preserve family heritage while adapting to modern living. This multi-generational home seamlessly integrates tradition and contemporary architecture, creating a harmonious environment for four generations.

A Home That Evolves with Time

The homeowner, deeply connected to the land where his family has lived for generations, sought to continue this legacy by expanding the existing home rather than relocating. The result is a thoughtfully designed extension, blending past and present through a series of interconnected structures.

A Courtyard That Connects Generations

At the heart of the design is a central courtyard, a shared space that fosters interaction among the family members. This concept reflects the philosophy of kintsugi, a traditional Japanese art of repairing broken objects with gold, symbolizing the beauty of imperfection and continuity. The courtyard serves as a unifying element, bridging different eras and creating a dynamic, evolving space for future generations.

Architectural Strategy: Layering Space and Light

To maximize natural light, ventilation, and openness, the architects strategically arranged three interconnected buildings on the west side of the site:

• A theater room
• A dining area
• A living space

These structures gradually increase in height from the main house toward the neighboring buildings, ensuring privacy, scenic views, and minimal shadow impact on the surrounding area.

Balancing Nature and Architecture

Rather than demolishing existing landscape elements, Studio Velocity preserved a mature tangerine tree, integrating it into the courtyard design. The exterior spaces vary in height, with:

• A garden at ground level, maintaining the existing tree
• A balcony on the second floor, overlooking the courtyard
• An inner balcony on the third floor, offering views beyond the surrounding buildings

A Living Legacy

The project embodies the evolution of traditional Japanese homes, adapting over decades through expansions and renovations. The newly built structures, along with the original main house, grandmother’s home, and parking area, frame the courtyard, creating a cohesive architectural dialogue between old and new.

Just like kintsugi, this home tells a story of adaptation, resilience, and continuity. It stands as a testament to sustainable architecture, where the past and present merge to create a home that will serve many generations to come.