Double circular rings in Todoroki

等々力の二重円環

A house built in Todoroki, Tokyo.

The landscape of sloping streets that is symbolic of the residential area of Todoroki has been formed as a result of the central valley, the only natural valley in Tokyo. The repetitive up and down rhythms of the area is a dynamic environment that has been formed by glacial movement over tens of thousands of years. In an attempt to maintain this rich environment, local regulations stipulate that all new buildings are required to be set back from the boundary of the site, and the resultant area be used as green space.

By actively utilizing this regulation through landscaping, it is possible to create a continuous space around the building, a ‘circular green ring.’ In addition, we wanted to create an overarching concept for the house that is guided by the ‘dynamic motion’ of the surrounding topography, and create a domestic space where both these sensations can be felt. The site itself is in the shape of a flag pole, and the ‘circular green ring’ is oriented as an extension of the approach, around the building. This continuous garden space is framed by the internal structure, and is designed to be an intermediate region between inside and outside. Internally, the elements necessary for daily life are gathered at the center, allowing activity to flow out to the edge.

The house was assembled in an almost self-build methodology, minimizing the structural language by utilizing a simple wooden module frame wrapped in a Low-e glass curtain wall. The particular depth of the site and the growing garden at the perimeter create a certain level of privacy and exposure, which blends into the environment of the surrounding residential area.

This is a low budget project, and costs were reduced by simplifying the construction method and minimizing the palette of materials. In addition, the open structure and free-plan can be easily re-interpreted by future families, designed to outlive the ubiquitous cycle of ‘scrap and build’ common in the area.