YUUA MACHIYA is renovation project was to transform an 85-year-old traditional Japanese style townhouse into ‘soho’; a contemporary dwelling and working space. We strived to respect the authentic style of the original building. It thrives upon the serenity set forth by the beautiful wooden structure and the dark atmosphere it provokes. This building is real contrast with the relentless speed of modern Tokyo city by which it is surrounded.
We restored the traditional Japanese artisan skills to life in modern design. Plaster walls, handmade terrazzo and old wooden parts were revived in newly designed spaces and furniture. And we also adopted materials, like brass and paulownia wood which change gradually. They were meant to age after this time so as to make new history amongst old things, making the deference between the old and new.
The facilities were reformed absolutely and some parts of the structure were reinforced in order to prolonging the lifetime of use. Especially, insulation and airtight was principal for the improvement of livability. Through this project, we thought about preserving a Japanese traditional house in an urban context where most building in Japan are torn down way too soon.
