FORM designs house for a photographer with a windowless steel façade

FORM’s ‘house for a photographer’ is located along an arterial road that runs through the countryside of shiga, japan. there are private residences in the neighborhood and a grove of the village shrine, surrounding a passage to the temple. the building is made of mortar and galvanized steel sheet which reflects dull light, making it look massive. it is laid out to be accommodated within the L-shaped lot, and stands facing the shrine on the opposite side of the street.

japanese based FORM/kouichi kimura architects‘ ‘house for a photographer’ is to be used as the building owner’s studio and gallery, as well as his residence. the client has requested to unite the studio where he produces his work with his living space. thus, kimura came up with an optimum plan by clarifying how the resident wants to live instead of segmenting the space by function.

the dim passage from the entrance invites visitors into the innermost space, while guiding them with light thrown from the ceiling of the connected gallery. the gallery clips out a space with the opening to look like an exhibition. its contrasted scale and natural light resonate with each other. the space that quietly inspires a feeling of exaltation among ordinary life also plays a role of a photogenic shooting location.

the long thin passage serving as an alley to go around the gallery has other functions than a mere pathway. it is also used as a space to post artworks and photos on the wall. it is beautifully themed with sight switching, different ceiling heights, and shade created by natural light.

the hall with different floor levels is located at the center of the building and plays a role of a hub which meets with each space. it also incorporates plumbing equipment, a counter, and a staircase, and is connected to an approach from the courtyard, thus not only providing functional comfort but also displaying scenic beauty.

FORM’s ‘house for a photographer’ is used as a living space, also offering a dynamic space with proportion and scale that allow it to serve as a photo studio. light coming through the high-side light envelops the room, enabling photo-shooting with natural light. photo-shooting equipment, vintage furniture, musical instrument, and artworks are placed here and there, blending in with the space. it acts in concert with the photographer’s feelings and aesthetic, working as the base to produce new creativity and activities.