Denizen Works Unveils a Japanese House with an Enigmatic Allure
The UK-based architectural studio Denizen Works has unveiled its first Japanese house, a captivating structure that challenges traditional design norms. Named House in Onimichi, this charred-timber-clad residence boasts an almost entirely blank street-facing facade, creating an air of mystery and intrigue.
Designed for a couple who relocated from London to Japan for a calmer lifestyle, the house offers a sense of privacy and seclusion. The core concept, as Denizen Works founder Murray Kerr explained, was to create a private sanctuary with breathtaking sea views and a connection to the nearby Setonai islands.
The two-storey block houses a one-bedroom residence, while a single-storey studio extends from it, partially enclosing a small garden. Both structures are connected by a covered entrance walkway and unified by vertical, burnt-timber Yakisugi cladding, paying homage to traditional Japanese architecture.
Kerr described the design as a blend of two traditional forms: the Omoya (main house) and the Hanare (annexe), symbolizing the separation of work and home. This split design enhances the sense of enclosure and privacy, a key consideration for the clients.
One of the most intriguing features is the absence of windows on the street-facing facade, broken only by the covered entrance. Kerr explained that this design choice adds an enigmatic quality, ensuring the private sanctuary remains exclusive to the owners and their guests.
Inside, the bedroom and bathroom are located on the ground floor, while the upper level features an open-plan kitchen and dining room. The space is designed to maximize sea views, with strategically placed windows at different heights to accommodate both floor-level and traditional seating arrangements.
Denizen Works collaborated with local architects Take Architects on this project, combining their expertise with traditional Japanese forms and craftsmanship. The building utilizes proportions typical of British dwellings while employing Japanese construction methods, creating a unique blend of styles.
According to Kerr, the house has already become a well-liked neighbor in the local community and continues the studio's tradition of innovative designs. Previous projects include a contemporary castle-like dwelling in Scotland and the Floating Genesis church, a unique structure crowned by a pop-up roof.
Denizen Works, founded in 2011, has offices in London and Glasgow, and continues to push the boundaries of architectural design, offering a fresh perspective on traditional Japanese architecture.
