Yokohama Tsuzuki

Housing for SKYMISSION

This project, designed by renowned architect, seeks to create a home where one can live in harmony with nature, even in densely populated cities. Inspired by traditional Japanese homes, architect redefines modern living through a deep connection to the sky. At the heart of the design is a large central courtyard, connecting every room and creating a unified space. No matter where one is, the sky is ever-present, offering a sense of being embraced by the open air.

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Yokohama Tsuzuki by Kei Tamai

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Housing by Kei Tamai

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Kei Tamai Yokohama Tsuzuki

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Kei Tamai Housing

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SKYMISSIONBrand Logo

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Unique Properties

This project, designed by renowned architect, seeks to create a home where one can live in harmony with nature, even in densely populated cities. Inspired by traditional Japanese homes, architect redefines modern living through a deep connection to the sky. At the heart of the design is a large central courtyard, connecting every room and creating a unified space. No matter where one is, the sky is ever-present, offering a sense of being embraced by the open air.

Tags

housing,japan,modern,architecture,Tokyo

Production Technology

The house is centered around a courtyard, as large as legally allowed, with all rooms surrounding it, forming a one-room space. The sky fills every corner, creating a living space always connected to it. From every room, the sky reflects seasonal changes, enriching the sense of time indoors. The courtyard enhances spaciousness and flow, adding vitality and relaxation to life. This flexible layout adapts to the residents' needs, embracing changes in family life as they grow.

Design Challenge

In the suburbs of major cities, small-scale developments for mass markets dominate, leading to declining living environments. Our company resists this trend by maintaining developments at their current scale to preserve quality. For properties priced over 100 million yen, delivering value is crucial, and working with renowned architects is one approach. While spec homes make achieving ideal designs easier, strict budget constraints create constant challenges between cost and design.

Project Duration

The collaboration between architect and principal home began in 2014. The first few years were devoted to discussions on project direction. In 2016, a clear vision was established, and design work began. In 2017, they completed "around the sky," which received the good design award. Following that, they built "with the sky" and "along the sky." This year, the construction of two buildings named "in the sky" was completed.

Operation Flow

The sky fills every corner of the house, creating a living space that is always connected to it. From the rooms, the sky reflects the seasonal changes, bringing a rich sense of time into the home. The courtyard creates a sense of openness and flow, greater than its physical size, fostering a life filled with relaxation and energy. This generous layout is flexible, able to accommodate the evolving nature of the family, growing and changing along with them over time.

Research

Traditional Japanese homes, like Kyoto's machiya, were designed to bring natural elements such as light and air into daily life, even in densely built cities. These homes had a garden at their center, creating comfort, respect for nature, and a unique aesthetic. Modern homes, however, prioritize performance and have become isolated from nature, heavily relying on energy. Now is the time to revive the traditional Japanese lifestyle, reducing energy use and reconnecting with nature.

Inspiration

Living close to neighboring houses is inevitable around major cities. Modern homes focus mainly on insulation, airtightness, and energy efficiency. People close their curtains to avoid the view from roads and nearby houses. In contrast, traditional Japanese homes embraced nature and the local climate, harmonizing with their surroundings and reflecting the lifestyle of the residents. It’s essential to restore these important values, which are gradually being lost in today’s modern living.

Project Overview

Yokohama Tsuzuki Housing has been a Bronze winner in the Architecture, Building and Structure Design award category in the year 2024 organized by the prestigious A' Design Award & Competition. The Bronze A' Design Award is given to outstanding designs that showcase a high degree of creativity and practicality. It recognizes the dedication and skill of designers who produce work that stands out for its thoughtful development and innovative use of materials and technology. These designs are acknowledged for their professional execution and potential to influence industry standards positively. Winning this award highlights the designer's ability to blend form and function effectively, offering solutions that enhance people's lives and wellbeing.

Image Credits

For design images and photos please credit Kei Tamai.

Bronze Recognition

Kei Tamai was recognized with the coveted Bronze A' Design Award in 2025, a testament to excellence of their work Yokohama Tsuzuki Housing.

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