A Touch of Scandinavia in Japan

Megan Harris Megan Harris
敷地の段差解消 x コンパクト都市型住宅 = スキップフロアの家, 株式会社 ヨゴホームズ 株式会社 ヨゴホームズ Scandinavian style houses
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The Matsuyama U House completed in 2015 and comprised of 114 square meters over two-storeys, was designed by the team at Yogohomes. Conscious of both the effect the home has on the environment as well as the effects the environment has on the home, the designers sought to employ sustainable and passive solar principals. A commitment to natural materials that will age beautifully over time is thoughtful and considered. While, the passive solar design principals that have been implemented make the home a pleasant place to be in year round, with very little additional help from electric heating.

Behind the white walls

Situated in Matsuyama, the capital of the Ehime prefecture, the house appears completely at place in the Japanese urban landscape. Behind the stark white walls and steeply pitched terracotta tile roof, the home unfold as a depository for all things Scandinavian. The architects reference the Danish word 'hygge' which is loosely translated to mean 'cosiness'. This word is quintessentially Danish, and a more elaborated definition would read—the creation of a warm and inviting environment to enjoy the pleasurable things in life with good company. And 'hygge' this house is!

Responsive to the site levels

The garage is accessed from ground level. Due to the slope of the site, the home is raised, requiring steps up to the entry. Because of this difference in level between the site and the road, the bedrooms have been located on the lower level where there is less availability of natural light. One ascends a flight of stairs to access the main living areas of the home that are afforded ample light. The entry door, imported from Denmark, is our first cue to what follows; all things Danish. 

Minimal and thoughtful

The white walls and the beautiful natural timber steps are characteristic of the material and colour palette that is used throughout. The space is minimal, but a thoughtfulness and attention is given to detail. A delightful stool, molded to the curvature of the human form, finds unexpected placement on the landing—perhaps one needs a moment to catch their breath before embarking on the second flight?

A love for Danish design

We can see the Scandinavian influence reigning supreme in the design of the dining and kitchen areas. Furniture by Danish designers has been thoughtfully selected to populate the room. The beautiful natural timber table by FREDERICIA is complimented with Hans Wegner's PP68 model chairs. A light fixture by Louis Poulsen provides a subtle, yet striking, focal anchor in the room. Even the kitchen is supplied by a Danish manufacturer! The space is simple, elegant and timeless. Are you looking for more dining room ideas? You will find plenty of inspiration here!

A splash of colour

A skillion ceiling allows for optimal use of this space. Natural light and air enter the space obliquely through the VELUX skylights. A fun pendant lamp draws attention to the wonderful side table. The table's striking red accent, alongside the rug's earthy tones, contrasts the blues and greens of the larger rug and pillows. This room lends itself to a colourful and playful atmosphere, compared to the more subdued spaces in the rest of the home. 

A final tip of the hat

No space is left untouched by Danish design. We see the fantastic Hans Wegner PP68 model chairs making a re-appearance in the office nook. This is a very efficient use of space—the nook is afforded a degree of separation from the other, more social, areas in the home without out being completely removed and shut away in a room. White, bright, simple and Scandinavian, from start to finish. For more office inspiration, take a look at these!

If you would like to take a look at another Japanese home, this time sans a ubiquity of Danish designs, you may enjoy this project: Contemporary Expression of Traditional Japanese Design.

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