DAITA

The residential complex consisting of 16 apartments is located in a quiet residen-tial area close to a main road in Setagaya-ku in the Western part of Tokyo. The hilly ar-ea is dotted with L-shaped mansions surrounded by trees. Three maisonette units face the street and step in relation to the natural slope of the property while the upper floors utilize this height difference. The dwelling units span the depth of the site to access the surrounding scenery. This access to nature is felt utilizing the different heights of the units. L-shaped colored stainless steel openings are dispersed along the facade penetrating the outer and inner wall surfaces creating a feeling reminiscent of the surrounding green areas. Studios are arranged above the maisonettes and their ceiling heights change along the sloping street. This provides a diverse collection of spaces within the cross-sectional space of the building. The dwelling units combine a simple design with little wasted space which allows for a variety of flexible configurations expressed by contrasting white paneled and bare con-crete walls. A series of steps within each of the spaces creates a relationship where the spaces can be changed by the residents. In addition, a self-supporting wall has been designed to be used as a walk-in closet or perhaps as a PC booth. A playful use of materials and spaces based on a minimalism related to the nature of the site provides a richness not dominated by things and a liberating lifestyle.