Takero Shimazaki reimagines the cloister typology for a suburban home

Transforming a typical detached suburban home, with its four bedrooms and compartamentalised rooms and views, into a flowing, open-plan arrangement that features a striking 13m, seven-bay loggia, this project is called A Wall For A House. Created by London-based Takero Shimazaki Architects (t-sa), the design proposes a new suburban cloister typology for a family home. 

Shimazaki's new loggia connects what was previously three separate rooms – the kitchen, dining and living spaces. Now, the united space blends four distinct functions: a Tandoor pod, a bar, the central dining table, and a lounge. 

‘In the early project conception stage, we and the family debated the relevance of loggias or cloistered spaces for living and how they enclose space and garden,' say the architects. ‘A series of card and plaster models tested the articulation of the loggia through proportions, spans and division of space.'

The minimalist space is defined by its materiality. There is a smooth timber floor, which flows seamlessly to connect with the outdoor terrace in the garden. Exposed softwood beams create a feature ceiling, which also aides acoustics. Three large skylights bring in plenty of natural light, even on the greyest days. Meanwhile, brick walls ensure continuity between interior and exterior, old and new. 

Through its clean lines, rich textures and strong conceptual core that anchors the project to its place, this sun-filled, residential cloister feels masterfully simple and concise. It unites the suburban home with its garden effortlessly through minimal gestures, celebrating repetition, horizontality and views. 

INFORMATION

t-sa.co.uk