Residence in Azabu is a minimal house located in Tokyo, Japan, designed by CASE-REAL. The renovation of a residential building from the 1980s, set amidst mature greenery, has been skillfully updated to suit modern tastes. Previously characterized by small, dimly lit rooms, the new design features an open floor plan that flows seamlessly from the entryway to the living and dining areas, with an abundance of natural light from north-facing windows. The kitchen has been strategically positioned at the heart of the space, eliminating unnecessary hallway areas and creating a more expansive living, dining, and kitchen zone. Additional pantry and utility spaces have been incorporated next to the kitchen to enhance household efficiency.

Aiming for an upscale urban apartment feel, black accents have been added to various surfaces, including walls, furniture, window frames, and baseboards, providing a striking contrast. Off-white plaster materials with a textured white finish and light gray flooring were chosen to control the overall aesthetic, offering subtle gradations throughout the space. Custom-designed sofas, dining tables, and select furniture pieces in the living, dining, and bedrooms were crafted to harmonize with the entire ambiance, striking a balance between the sophistication, brightness, and energy of city living and the warmth of a comfortable home.

Photography by Daisuke Shima