#RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECTURE PROJECTS
tailored design lab renovates and remodels a 70 year old house in kaga city
in the central japanese city of kaga, local practice tailored design lab has renovated a 70 year old dwelling for a client of the same age.
the architects sought to restore the home’s original characteristics, which shared many of the same qualities as the client’s first residence where he lived until he was 18. as a result of depopulation, many of the surrounding buildings remain vacant. as a consequence, the ground floor of the structure — which was once used for large gatherings and ceremonies — has been remodeled to serve as a more intimate private living space.
the design team carefully stripped away the wood from the ceiling joists, creating a large double-height space that uncovers the building’s original structure and reveals the roof’s robust trusses. this red-stained wood has been repurposed as floorboards, tabletops, and handrails. a new window illuminates this space, providing natural light and ventilation.
as well as stripping away parts of the existing building, the architects also improved the building’s amenities. for example, the previously damaged kitchen walls have been replaced with an airtight partition that is both insulated and earthquake-resistant. while the choice of materials reflects the past, they have been carefully reorganized to create an inviting and comfortable retirement home.
