Ishibe House – A Small Industrial Inspired Home for a Family of 3

This project, called Ishibe House, consists of a new build that’s been intended to feel like the interior of a renovated warehouse. Designed by ALTS Design Office, the clients – a young family – liked the aesthetic of converted industrials spaces, and wanted elements of that to be incorporated into their own home.

Located in Japan’s Shiga prefecture, the house features all the mod-cons associated with a new home as opposed to a renovated warehouse, like thorough insulation and lower maintenance. Honestly, I don’t think the interior resembles a warehouse at all, but simply adopts a few elements to create an industrial-chic feel.

The exterior of the building is very plain; you could almost pass it off as a storage shed. Unlike a lot of Japanese homes that are built in bustling cities, it features some surrounding land which they’ve used to create a series of sheltered outside verandas.

The first floor of Ishibe House features the more functional spaces, namely the kitchen, dining room, and the bathroom. There’s also a large section of the house dedicated to the entrance, beyond which you step up into the main living areas.

Up the set of black powder-coated metal stairs you’ll be greeted by the home’s living room. Another small flight of steps takes you to the master bedroom, and the children’s room which is wrapped around a large closet. This floor also features a toilet found beyond the children’s room.

The house contains a total of 1,281 square feet (119 square meters) spread over its two levels. The raw concrete and black steel are warmed by the wooden structure, which is on display throughout. From the architects: “We made a building like an existing warehouse at first, and designed it carefully as if the client renovated it. We created open spaces so that the client can arrange them to suit their lifestyle.”

For more Japanese houses check out this family home located on Awaji Island. Or, the Wood Box House that mixes work and home life. See all Japanese houses.

Via DesignBoom
Photos: Alts Design Office