Embracing Renewal
The Apartment in Oku stands as a testament to the transformative power of renovation, breathing new life into a 40-year-old apartment building in Arakawa-ku, Tokyo. Positioned at the corner of the building, the apartment offers a sun-drenched and airy ambiance, surrounded by balconies on three sides. Prior to the property purchase, Buttondesign embarked on a journey to explore the feasibility of the client’s vision, providing essential planning support to guide their decision-making process.
A Vision of Openness
Driven by the client’s desire for an open space within the confines of an apartment, Buttondesign embraced the concept of “openness” beyond mere floor area. They envisioned spatial expansiveness by seamlessly integrating connections to the outdoors and the surrounding scenery into everyday life. Their approach, rooted in an architectural mindset, aimed to craft a proposal uniquely tailored to the client’s needs.
Sensory Experience
In crafting the Apartment in Oku, Buttondesign prioritized the sensory experience, extending beyond visual aesthetics to touch and feel. Recognizing the profound impact of environmental stimuli on human perception, they sought to evoke sensations akin to those experienced in nature. Inspired by the desire to recreate the feeling of running barefoot outdoors, they introduced a washed-out gravel finish to the flooring material, reminiscent of childhood adventures.
Craftsmanship and Comfort
Collaborating closely with skilled craftsmen, Buttondesign meticulously adjusted the gravel finish to ensure it seamlessly integrated into daily life, offering comfort without compromising functionality. The result is a flooring surface that exudes the warmth of natural textures while providing a comfortable and stable foundation for everyday activities. Wool carpets delineate different zones within the one-room space, offering varied tactile experiences and enhancing the overall sense of comfort.
A Return to Sensory Living
By carefully insulating the floor and incorporating subtle unevenness, Buttondesign created a space that transcends conventional standards of comfort. The apartment offers a harmonious blend of indoor tranquility and outdoor vitality, inviting residents to reconnect with their senses and embrace a lifestyle rooted in sensory awareness. In the Apartment in Oku, comfort extends beyond physical amenities, nurturing a rich and holistic living experience aligned with the essence of human sensibility.
