KMR Architects has created a stunning yet functional design with the rebuild of Koyagi House in Gunma, Japan, focusing on environmental performance.
KMR Architects has done it again with their latest project, the rebuild of Koyagi House in Gunma, Japan. This minimalist yet functional design is the epitome of rationality, generality, and simplification. With a simple three-part configuration, the size of the space decreases from the outside to the inside, providing privacy and flexibility without the need for meticulous planning.
One of the standout features of this house is the outermost large space, which serves as a weather-beaten space with no specific function. However, it has a louver on the top and is surrounded by a structural frame. The louvers can be adjusted according to the angle of the summer solstice, controlling the amount of sunlight entering the room. This unique architectural element also adds to the overall aesthetic of the house.
Environmental performance was a key consideration for KMR Architects in the design of Koyagi House. The use of general-purpose equipment was minimized, with only two household air conditioners installed. The underfloor is for heating, while the second floor is for cooling, with a ceiling fan above diffusing the air to make the temperature uniform throughout the house. The insulation is also a hybrid structure filled with high-performance glass wool and extruded Styrofoam on the outside, ensuring maximum energy efficiency.
Overall, Koyagi House by KMR Architects is a prime example of how a low-cost yet high-performance house can be achieved through rationality, generality, and simplification. The attention to detail in the design, combined with a focus on environmental performance, makes this house not only beautiful but also functional and sustainable.
