Row House in Sumiyoshi, Residential architectural masterwork in Sumiyoshi-ku, Japan.
The Row House is a residential structure in Sumiyoshi-ku composed of three rectangular concrete volumes arranged around an open courtyard. The interior spaces are defined by these forms and large windows that flood the rooms with natural light.
Completed in 1976, this project marked a turning point in modern Japanese architecture through its innovative approach to urban housing. The design showed how concrete construction and open spatial concepts could transform residential living in dense cities.
The building reflects Japanese spatial thinking by merging interior and exterior spaces through a central courtyard that embodies traditional housing ideals. The arrangement of volumes creates a rhythm in daily life, where light and air flow between the concrete forms.
The house is accessible to architecture enthusiasts and requires advance planning for a visit. Located in Osaka, it is reachable and offers insight into an important residential structure from the 20th century.
The interior contains no traditional walls or partitions, with spaces defined solely by concrete volumes and natural light. This radical openness was an unusual approach for a private Japanese residence at the time of construction.
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