The only decorative flourishes are those occuring in the interior, like the gentle arc of a Castiglioni’s Arco lamp visible through a window.
The glass-enclosed master bedroom floats above the corrugated, oxidized steel exterior.
The “culinary cockpit” (a.k.a. the kitchen) stands at the center of the apartment on a raised platform. A long, white slanted counter contains hi-fi speakers and a BUS-system panel of 18 buttons for controlling lights, curtains, heating, ventilation, etc.
The compound at dusk.
The inner dimple, not far from the front door, separates the entrance from the living space.
“Everyone stops to look at the building,” says Motoshi. Neighbors may stare at the severe facade, but once inside they are amazed with the quality and comfort of his home. Its efficient design comes from IDEA Office’s clever rethink of local zoning regulations and required setbacks.