Simply Open: A Fluid Apartment Renovation in Japan

Renovated by Sinato Architects, this apartment was opened up to suit a couple in Fujigaoka, Japan. The bedroom is partially obscured by a wooden storage block, a mass which curves the space like an “L.” On one end, there is a living room and, around the corner, the entrance to the bedroom; in the middle, the kitchen and dining room are spread out; and, on the other end, the entrance and bathroom vanity put service areas at the front. Only the the toilet, the bathtub, and the closets are closed off behind doors. Altogether, the resulting apartment feels open but still cleanly defined.