Two Large Roofs Leaning Together by KOMINORU Design

KOMINORU Design’s Two Large Roofs Leaning Together is a thoughtfully designed two-family residence located on a generous plot within a densely populated urban neighborhood near the station. This innovative house demonstrates how spatial efficiency, natural light, and family connectivity can coexist harmoniously in modern Japanese residential architecture.

Architecture Concept & Design

Designed for both parents and children, the house takes full advantage of its site while blending seamlessly into its urban surroundings. The low, expansive eaves give the two-story home the appearance of a single-story structure, creating a welcoming, unobtrusive presence in the neighborhood. This design approach maximizes usable floor area without overwhelming the surrounding environment.

Spatial Planning & Functionality

The house cleverly utilizes indentations in the roof to create functional outdoor spaces, including a balcony, outdoor storage, and skylights. These thoughtful openings allow light and air to penetrate deep into the interior, enhancing the sense of spaciousness and connection with the outdoors.

A central atrium above the living room promotes visual connectivity between floors, allowing family members to stay aware of each other’s activities while maintaining privacy. A skylight above the atrium bathes the first-floor living space in natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day and reinforcing a sense of openness.

Urban Living & Environmental Considerations

Instead of relying on high walls to gain light, views, and ventilation, the design prioritizes an unobstructed roof plane to bring in natural light, breezes, and additional activity spaces. This approach enhances both comfort and sustainability, offering a practical model for urban housing in dense city environments.

The resulting two-story structure, resembling a single-story home from the outside, presents a non-intimidating yet generous presence. It harmonizes with the surrounding residential fabric while offering a rich, functional, and visually connected living environment for its occupants. This project exemplifies a contemporary solution for maximizing livable space, privacy, and comfort in crowded urban settings.

Materials & Interior Design

Natural wood, exposed beams, and carefully placed lighting define the interior ambiance, emphasizing warmth and connection to nature. The interior design balances openness and privacy, ensuring both shared and personal spaces meet the needs of multi-generational living.

All photographs are works of Yohei Shirai