Nestled within a rapidly transforming Osaka neighborhood, Fumi Aso‘s “13 Pieces House” presents a compelling response to the challenges of urban infill and the evolving character of residential architecture. Surrounded by the hum of Japan Railways and private lines, a large park, and busy thoroughfares, the site—an irregular pentagon—posed a unique design puzzle. Aso’s solution is both elegant and ingenious, creating a home that feels simultaneously connected and private, open and intimate.
The area is experiencing a shift, with older two-story homes giving way to three-story structures incorporating garages. This trend often sacrifices front yards for increased volume, altering the streetscape. Aso’s design consciously bucks this trend, opting for a two-story building without a garage, prioritizing instead the creation of a unique spatial experience.
The core concept revolves around a clever division of the site. Aso began by creating a smaller, offset pentagon within the site boundary, which was then subdivided into nine equal squares. This seemingly simple act unlocks a fascinating interplay of space. Where the squares intersect, Aso introduced openings, and where they don’t, walls were erected. This process results in nine distinct squares and four interstitial areas, each with its own character. The diagonal views created by this arrangement resonate throughout the house, offering a dynamic perception of space.
The experience of moving through the house is carefully choreographed. Hanging walls of varying heights define the spaces, subtly guiding movement and creating a sense of layered depth. Some areas, like spaces 6 and 8 on the first floor and space 15 on the second, are fully enclosed, while others, such as the transition from space 5 to 9 (the main entrance) and the open-plan kitchen and dining area, are more loosely defined by the hanging walls. This creates a fluid and ever-changing perception of the home, where spaces connect and disconnect depending on one’s vantage point.
Aso’s design also addresses the house’s relationship with its surroundings. Greenery is strategically incorporated into the squares, effectively bringing the front garden inside the house and adding another layer of visual interest. The ceilings are raised, giving the building a sense of added volume, almost like a 2.5-story structure.
The windows, carefully positioned and sized, are scattered across the facades, responding to the nuances of the neighborhood while deliberately avoiding any clear indication of floor levels or orientation. This ambiguity allows the house to engage in a subtle dialogue with both the older two-story homes with front yards and the newer three-story structures with garages, bridging the gap between the past and present.
The “13 Pieces House” is more than just a dwelling; it’s an exploration of space, light, and connection. Aso’s innovative approach transforms a challenging site into a home that is both unique and deeply rooted in its context. By embracing the complexities of its surroundings, the house offers a fresh perspective on contemporary urban living.