Slur House: Yohei Ikai's Annex Connects Old and New Tokyo Homes
In the suburbs of Tokyo, architect Yohei Ikai from icai architects has finalized the Slur House, a 30-square-meter extension to a family home that is 15 years old. The name derives from the musical term "slur," symbolizing the connection between the existing structure and the new addition. This annex boasts a shifted ridge beam for an elevated ceiling and a high-side window that invites natural light. Inside, the compact area is organized with two lofts and freestanding columns. Gradient curtains were crafted by textile designer some/to, while a desk and table were designed collaboratively using lauan plywood. The annex mirrors the original residence's features, including a near-square layout, pointed roof, and white exterior walls. Structural design was provided by Kenichi Inoue Structural Design Office, with photography by Munetaka Onodera.
Key facts
- Slur House is a 30 sqm detached annex in suburban Tokyo, Japan.
- Designed by Yohei Ikai / icai architects.
- The annex is added to a 15-year-old single-family residence.
- The design uses the musical concept of a slur as a spatial reference.
- A high-side window captures sunlight reflected from the existing house's white wall.
- Textile designer some/to created gradient curtains.
- Desk and table were DIY-assembled from lauan plywood, cut from three 21-mm-thick 3×6 boards.
- Structural design by Kenichi Inoue Structural Design Office; photography by Munetaka Onodera.
Entities
Artists
- Yohei Ikai
Institutions
- icai architects
- Kenichi Inoue Structural Design Office
- some/to
- designboom
Locations
- Tokyo
- Japan