Designing a home that reflects the personalities and aspirations of its occupants is a thrilling challenge for any architect. In the case of the Milk Carton House, Tenhachi Architect & Interior Design rose to the occasion, delivering a compact yet stunning residence that perfectly captures the essence of a young couple's new chapter in life. Situated in the heart of Tokyo, Japan, this house stands as a testament to the power of creative design in maximizing limited space.
Creating a Comfortable Haven
This house was built on a narrow property, spanning a mere 43 square meters. Despite its size constraints, the architects knew that creating a comfortable living environment was of utmost importance to the newlyweds. The couple prioritized easy access to the city center for their daily commute, making it a key consideration in the design process. Additionally, the Milk Carton House had to adhere to strict height regulations imposed by Japanese architectural standards, resulting in a three-and-a-half-meter-wide structure flanked by existing residential buildings.
The Beauty in Innovative Design
Aesthetics played a crucial role in the creation of the Milk Carton House. The street-facing elevation features light gray galvalume panels arranged in a diagonal pattern, carefully folded like origami. This unique design choice gives the house a fresh and modern appearance, setting it apart from the surrounding buildings. While galvalume is a commonplace material, the architects successfully imbued the Milk Carton House with a new face in the city.
Thoughtful Spaces for Work and Play
Upon entering the Milk Carton House, a spacious and versatile workspace awaits, complete with an exposed concrete floor and double-height ceilings. The use of large windows and exposed timber beams accentuates the impressive ceiling height, creating an open and airy atmosphere. To cater to the couple's desire for a dual-purpose space, a wooden frame glass door separates the public area from the private space, striking a balance between security and openness.
At the back of the house, a white box unit houses the bedroom and utility spaces. The first floor features a small bed space, while the area is cleverly divided to include a guest toilet and private utility space. Natural light floods the space through skylights, casting a warm glow on the staircase and corridor, guiding guests to the second floor. The upper level comprises a dining area, living room, and a free loft space. The sunken kitchen and dining area seamlessly connect to the living room, creating a sense of unity and functionality. The kitchen, custom-made from Ikea cabinets, effortlessly flows into the living room, incorporating a TV cabinet and steps to the loft stairs. The large skylight above the living room allows for an abundance of natural light and ventilation, enhancing the overall sense of spaciousness.
Blurring the Lines Between Furniture and Architecture
In a small house like the Milk Carton House, every detail matters. The architects strived to achieve perfection in housework functionality, storage space, and overall comfort. The house's layout blurs the line between furniture and architecture, resulting in a home that feels like a beautifully crafted piece of furniture. Utilizing an open-plan design without rigidly defined functions, the Milk Carton House offers flexibility and a cozy atmosphere.
The Milk Carton House stands as a testament to the creativity and innovation that can be achieved within the confines of limited space. Tenhachi Architect & Interior Design successfully transformed the couple's vision into reality, crafting a home that perfectly embodies their new journey together. This cozy dwelling showcases the power of thoughtful design, proving that comfort and creativity can coexist harmoniously in the world of architecture.