In the city of Tokyo, where space is at a premium, LEVEL Architects were faced with the challenge of incorporating a skate park and a piano rehearsal room in a house built on a site of 88 sq.m, with the aim of catering the diverse interests of a young married couple.
As the parking area wasn’t required, the space was built up and soundproofed and a skateboard bowl was constructed. At one end of the rectangular space, behind sliding doors, a raised platform became the area for the piano with optional seating for an audience around the skateboard bowl.
The various ceiling levels create the illusion of openness and space and the contrasting materials of concrete, stone and wood, define the functionality of the 150 sq.m. living space. The master suite is on the upper level, set apart by the striking use of new and reclaimed wood of the floors. Wedged between two existing buildings, the problem of lighting has been addressed by the installation of a large ceiling light which ensures that all parts of the house are bright at all times.
The house is an exception to the traditional Japanese home where high ceilings and even a roof garden are rarely seen, not to mention a skateboard park and mini concert hall!
