In the scenic residential district of Kajiwara, nestled within Kamakura, Japan, a 1960s timber-framed dwelling has undergone a remarkable metamorphosis. The architectural firm ROOVICE spearheaded this renovation, breathing new life into the historic structure to cater to the unique needs of a creative couple and their two beloved cats. The design philosophy centered on a delicate balance of preservation and targeted modernization, ensuring the home's inherent charm and structural integrity were honored while significantly enhancing its practical aspects.
Kajiwara House: A Symphony of Past and Present
The journey of transformation commenced with the exterior, which was gracefully coated in a sophisticated black hue. The entrance door and window frames were uniformly finished in the same deep tone, creating a harmonious and unified facade that respects the building's original form. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a subtle yet captivating original detail: a slender band of smooth white pebbles carefully arranged between reddish floor tiles and a concrete step. These loose pebbles introduce a delightful tactile element, inviting interaction. Inside, aged wooden wall panels were replaced with fresh ones, and a simple wooden barrier was thoughtfully installed near the entrance, ensuring the cats' safety when the door is ajar.
On the ground floor, ROOVICE's design team skillfully reimagined the front room, converting it into a versatile studio and office space. The original glass sliding doors from the built-in storage units were meticulously restored, retaining their aesthetic and functional significance. Towards the rear, two garden-facing rooms were seamlessly merged, forming an expansive and inviting living area. Large windows were strategically incorporated, not only flooding the space with natural light but also forging a captivating visual connection to the lush garden outside. Along the serene engawa corridor, the traditional shoji-lined walls were carefully preserved, as were the original ceiling boards. Where new ceiling sections were introduced, they were finished with distinct wooden panels, clearly articulating the dialogue between the home's original elements and its contemporary additions. A continuous flooring treatment throughout the entire level fosters a fluid and cohesive spatial experience.
The bathroom, a private sanctuary, cleverly retains an interior window that overlooks the hallway. The space was subtly expanded to enhance its utility, with existing wall tiles meticulously preserved wherever feasible. In areas where matching tiles were unavailable, new white tiles were intentionally introduced, creating a tasteful contrast that celebrates the home's layered character. The original tamaira floor tiles remain intact, anchoring the space in its historical context. In the culinary heart of the home, the kitchen, built-in cupboards were refreshed and maintained, while only the outdated sections were replaced with a bespoke wooden counter. The floor was finished with mortar, a deliberate choice by the homeowners, anticipating the natural development of cracks over time as part of the material's evolving aesthetic.
Venturing upstairs, two smaller rooms were ingeniously combined to form a spacious and tranquil bedroom. Existing oshiire closets were integrated into one continuous storage solution, offering ample space. Generous windows ensure the enlarged bedroom is bathed in natural light. While the formal renovation work has concluded, the owners envision completing the walls with shikkui plaster themselves, extending the adaptive process beyond the construction phase and imbuing the home with their personal touch.
This renovation by ROOVICE serves as a compelling testament to how thoughtful design can bridge the gap between historical architecture and modern living. It demonstrates a deep respect for the past while embracing the needs and desires of the present. The Kajiwara House not only provides a beautiful and functional home but also tells a story of careful stewardship and creative adaptation, proving that even a mid-century wooden house can be transformed into a vibrant, contemporary haven for its inhabitants and their beloved pets. This project highlights the importance of sustainable practices in architecture, focusing on revitalizing existing structures rather than simply replacing them, and underscores the beauty found in the integration of old and new.