Doing something to the letter doesn't usually result in creativity. But in the case of a spacious Tokyo house designed by CASE-REAL, that phrase takes on new meaning. The design was based on two letter-shaped features: The L-shape of the building, which informed the garden and landscaping (created by GREENETTA) and an N-shaped structural support that defines the open dining and living room.
Video of the Day
The rest of the house follows this motif that concentrates on hard edges: The front and back facades feature doors wedged at an angle. Wood built-ins accentuate square shapes. A reserved color palette (mostly white, gray, and natural wood tones) creates a sense of serenity, which can be found in both the private and shared rooms. Overall, the 1,900-square-foot residence is a reminder that concentrating on shapes and exercising restraint can create a spacious and relaxing atmosphere.
After interning at Dwell magazine in San Francisco, Kate began writing about arts, design and culture for other national publications. She is based in Los Angeles and San Francisco.