House in Kitakamakura is a unique modern house comprised of glass, steel and concrete, designed by Suppose Design Office, situated in Kamakura, Kanagawa, Japan. The residence was built on an uneven site in the outskirts of Kita Kamakura. The architects devised a plan to create an appealing living space by building directly over the uneven land. From an architectural standpoint, with an upper and lower level, the influence of the footing and other aspects caused too many uncertainties in the support of the retaining wall. So the architects proposed to set concrete shafts slightly away from the wall and create a steel frame between the shafts in order to insure the safety of the living space and the site at the same time.

This also helps to keep the excavation which accompanies construction work on uneven sites to a minimum. In addition, the space between the two levels which is created by the shafts and the retaining wall can be used as a garden. Many kinds of natural spaces can be created, such as a Japanese Garden, Bath Terrace, or Green Garden. The concrete will create a quiet, enclosed space, while an open space is created by the steel framework. Through these — two structural forms you can feel connected to the surrounding nature in this wonderful living space.

With just a few techniques we can overturn the stereotypes associated with this type of site. What was once viewed- as a site with poor building conditions can be changed into land with great possibilities. Rather than looking at the negative side, we would like to continue searching for these possibilities by accepting all — that these sites have to offer.

Photos: Toshiyuki Yano from Nacasa&Partners Inc.