Japanese design studios Td-ATelier and Endo Shorijo Design work together on the House in Marutamachi. It is an old townhouse in Kyoto that has minimal interiors that were originally built 120 years ago. It rests between two residential properties. Throughout the interior, there is a color palette that brings light and dark wood tones along with smooth concrete.
Td-Atelier explains that, "Traditional Kyoto townhouses are being destroyed at a pace of 800 houses a year. Old buildings don't match modern life. However, we want to stop the decline of Kyoto townhouses by fusing tradition, design, and new life. [...] The gaps and omissions created between the volume group and the existing columns, beams, walls, and floors create continuity in the space."
Updated Traditional Machiya House
Td-Atelier Helps Design the House in Marutamachi Interior
Trend Themes
1. Preservation of Traditional Architecture - The declining number of traditional houses in Kyoto provides an opportunity for designers to find ways to fuse tradition with modern design and preserve the original structures.
2. Minimalist Interiors - Designers can take inspiration from the House in Marutamachi and create sleek, minimalist interiors that complement and highlight the original architecture.
3. Natural Color Palettes - Using a color palette with light and dark wood tones, as well as smooth concrete can create a natural and cohesive aesthetic in traditional Japanese houses.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture - The declining number of traditional townhouses in Kyoto means great opportunities for architectural firms to help preserve and redesign these historical structures.
2. Interior Design - The minimalist interiors of the House in Marutamachi can serve as inspiration for interior designers, particularly those interested in creating designs that complement historical architecture.
3. Construction - The fusion of modern design and historical architecture requires innovative construction techniques and technologies that can preserve and enhance the original structures.