The project is a renovation of residential unit of an apartment in Kyoto, Japan. A three dimensional ceiling is designed to affect the perception of space and human physicality.

© Shingo Kanagawa

Architects: ICADA

Location: Somedonocho, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 602-0844, Japan

Architect In Charge: Nariaki Chigusa

General Contractor: Kyoto Kensetsu

Area: 44.7 m2

Project Year: 2016

Photographs: Shingo Kanagawa

© Shingo Kanagawa

The project is a renovation of residential unit of an apartment in Kyoto, Japan. A three dimensional ceiling is designed to affect the perception of space and human physicality.
© Shingo Kanagawa

The ceiling height changes gradually, from 2.63m at the living and dining room, to only 1.67m at the Japanese-style tearoom located in the deepest area. This lowest ceiling height is defined by human heights, and other three points were designed as high as possible in the limited existing structure. The geometry of the ceiling resembles to that of shell structure, and it gives feelings, even within a small residential unit, that your body becomes bigger/smaller. The perspectives in this house create the perception of physical extension and contraction. 

Plan

Round-shaped lightings are placed on the warping ceiling. They have ...