In Mukojima’s eastern district, just a short walk from the station, stands a 65m², two-story wooden house built in the 1970s. Once dark and compact, the home has been updated with subtle, thoughtful changes to suit contemporary living.
Project Name: HOUSE IN SUMIDA
Studio Name: ROOVICE
Lead Architect: Sorai Takei | Roovice
Construction Year: 2023
Gross Built Area: 65.42m2
Photography: Akira Nakamura
This project is part of Roovice’s Kariage initiative, which renovates vacant properties and subleases them at no cost to the owner. It addresses Japan’s pressing akiya (vacant property) issue, with over 10 million empty homes nationwide.
A Family Home with Deep Roots
The project began when the daughter of the original owner approached us. The home, holding sentimental value as her father’s childhood residence, faced challenges due to its non-rebuildable status. Leasing it out became the most viable solution.
Honoring the Original Layout
The house’s compact design posed challenges, such as a small kitchen beneath the stairs and a closed-off first floor that restricted light. Additionally, an external storage area blocked natural light. Our approach prioritized gentle updates to open the space while retaining the home’s original character.
Enhancing Light and Space
Key improvements included removing the external storage area to uncover a blocked window, allowing light to flood the living space. Opening the staircase area and removing excess walls and ceiling boards created a more fluid layout. To unify the space, we added neutral-tone PVC sheet flooring on the ground level and exposed the ceiling to increase height and openness.
Relocating the Kitchen
The cramped kitchen under the stairs was relocated to the center of the open-plan layout. A custom lauan plywood kitchen unit was installed, designed to feel lightweight and unobtrusive.
Preserving the Home’s Character
Original features, such as the entrance shelving, were carefully refinished and retained to honor the home’s history. Upstairs, tatami mats were replaced with wooden flooring, balancing modern functionality with respect for tradition.
Prioritizing Practicality and Economy
In the bathroom, we refreshed the space by plastering over the existing tiles, avoiding the need for a costly remodel while achieving a clean, updated look.
A Balanced Renewal
By introducing light and openness without significant structural changes, the home now offers modern comfort while reflecting its rich history. Once enclosed and shadowed, the house has been transformed into a bright, connected living space—a seamless blend of past and present.
