FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

"Yokohama Tsuzuki": Redefining Urban Living Through Connection to Nature and the Sky

Kei Tamai's "Yokohama Tsuzuki" project stands out as a pioneering response to the challenges of urban housing near major Japanese cities. Drawing inspiration from traditional Japanese homes that harmonized with their natural surroundings, Tamai's design reintroduces the concept of living in sync with nature, even in the midst of dense cityscapes. The project was conceived to restore values that are being lost in modern living-openness, connection to the environment, and a sense of tranquility-by reimagining how urban homes can embrace rather than shut out their surroundings.

At the heart of "Yokohama Tsuzuki" is a large central courtyard, the largest permitted by local regulations, around which all rooms are arranged. This design ensures that every space in the home is visually and atmospherically connected to the sky, allowing natural light and seasonal changes to permeate daily life. The courtyard not only enhances the sense of spaciousness and flow but also provides a flexible layout that adapts to the evolving needs of residents, fostering relaxation, vitality, and a deep sense of belonging to the environment.

The realization of this project required careful attention to both traditional design principles and modern construction technologies. The house's layout maximizes the legal footprint while maintaining a one-room feel, with a total floor area of 160.02 square meters on a 213.98 square meter site. The design process began in 2014, with construction culminating in the completion of two "in the sky" buildings this year. Throughout, Tamai and his collaborators overcame challenges typical of high-value urban developments, such as balancing cost constraints with the pursuit of architectural excellence. The result is a home that not only reduces energy reliance but also revives the spirit of traditional Japanese living, earning recognition with the prestigious Bronze A' Design Award 2025.

-END-