A Living Space Shaped by Stone

This project is a condominium renovation. Located on an upper floor of a tower condominium, it was designed to take advantage of its 3-meter ceiling height, to create a living-dining-kitchen (LDK) centered around the kitchen, and to adapt flexibly as the children grow.

The 30-tatami LDK is centered on the kitchen, maintaining visual connections while accommodating various scenes. It is not simply a large living room for gathering, but a home where each family member can shift places according to what they wish to do—spending time individually yet still coming together.

Outline

Renovation of a unit in a tower condominium with generous ceiling height.
The kitchen, once hidden from the living area, repositioned at the center of the LDK to overlook family activities.
Three massive columns clad in heavy stone (Towada-ishi), wrapped with indirect lighting and storage furniture, becoming the focal point of the interior.

Shaping

Spatial Diagram

Site analysis—open for view, close for privacy.

Plans

Features

A space framed
by stone columns

In the spacious, high-ceilinged LDK, three tall, massive columns stood in the space. These were clad in heavy stone (Towada-ishi) and wrapped with “wooden origami” elements that function as indirect lighting, along with storage furniture. The presence of these substantial stone columns emphasizes the ceiling height and defines the character of the LDK.

The kitchen
at the center of the LDK

Originally tucked away from view, the kitchen was reconfigured: the former space was transformed into a generous walk-through pantry, while a new kitchen was placed at the heart of the LDK. From here one can see every aspect of family life—someone playing the piano, relaxing on the sofa, watching television, children playing on the floor, or dining and studying at the table.

The pantry is walk-through, allowing groceries to be brought in, stored, and carried directly into the kitchen—an efficient and practical circulation.

Family dining
—for meals and study

The family dining area faces a corner window, making it one of the most open and pleasant spots in the LDK. Being right next to the kitchen, serving meals is easy, and parents can keep an eye on children while they eat or study. Although kitchens can be noisy, this close distance makes conversation easier. With storage furniture nearby, study materials can be quickly put away.

For the dining table, the choice was the TECTA M21 table, with a tabletop design by Jean Prouvé, later realized by TECTA in 1991. Its asymmetrical form has a distinctive character: it allows everyone to see one another’s faces while seated, encouraging natural conversation. Yet because the seating positions are not fixed, one can sit closer for quiet conversation or at an angle for work, maintaining a natural sense of distance. The rounded form also adds a gentle softness to the atmosphere of the space.

A floor for relaxing and play

While the children are young, a floor space for play is especially convenient. For adults too, it can serve as a place for exercise or stretching. A large circular rug with stylish beanbag cushions would make this area comfortable and inviting.