Designed for a professional boulderer who spends his days off in search of mountains to climb, House in Tsukawaki is a distillation of the client’s passion for the sport. By incorporating a climbing wall in the home, Horibe Associates allows the client to pursue his love without sacrificing quality time with his wife and two children.

The two-story, gabled home is compact and efficient at just 1,206 square feet. Simple in form, yet contemporary in its expression, the home is a modern interpretation of the regional vernacular.

The residence is clad in Galvalume-coated steel, an affordable and protective material that creates a textured facade. Bright white, stucco ends contrast with the dark form, drawing focus to the home’s entry.

The main floor holds open living spaces—including the dramatic climbing wall that ascends from the dining room to the second story. Since the bouldering room is adjacent to communal areas, the entire family can spend time together in the same space.

Three bedrooms and a loft-like corridor are located on the upper level. Plywood-clad ceilings create an atmosphere reminiscent of a mountain hut—one the homeowner might stay in while on a climbing excursion. Openings to the main floor allow glimpses of the climbing wall.

Throughout the interior, a muted color palette is warmed by wood that wraps the floor, casework, stairs, and ceilings. Walls are constructed of plaster and lauan plywood. Boldly colored climbing holds add punctuating pops of color that cascade from second to the ground floor.

With bouldering at the center of the home, climbing has truly become a family affair: since moving in, the homeowners’ four-year-old son has also started braving the ascent.

Takatsuki, Japan. The gable roof resonates with the character of the surrounding residences." layout="wide" credit="Photo by Yohei Sasakura" photoUserId=""/>House in Tsukawaki first floor plan" layout="" credit="Courtesy of Horibe Associates" photoUserId=""/>House in Tsukawaki second floor plan" layout="" credit="Courtesy of Horibe Associates" photoUserId=""/>

Related Reading:

A Fun, Cost-Conscious Home With Bright Interiors and a Climbing Wall

This Tiny Trailer Home Lets Its Owners Climb Up the Wall

Project Credits:

Architect of Record: Horibe Associates Co., Ltd. / @horibeassociates

Builder / General Contractor: Soken Corporation

Structural Engineer: Shinsaku Kataoka

Lighting Design: Horibe Associates co., Ltd.

Interior Design: Horibe Associates co., Ltd.

Veneered Surfaces & Design: YASUTA Veneered Surfaces & Design

Styling: C-Forest Co., Ltd.

Also Appears In

A Climbing Wall Allows This Japanese Family to Bond While Bouldering