A Traditional Kyoto Home Reimagined for Modern Living

Nestled in the quiet Narutaki district on the outskirts of Kyoto, Japan, this renovated residence offers a thoughtful blend of traditional Japanese architecture and contemporary living. Designed by Ku Architects, the 323 square meter home sits on a wooded hillside surrounded by seasonal landscapes. Rather than replacing the existing structure, the project focuses on preserving its architectural heritage while adapting it to meet the needs of modern life, creating a home that feels both timeless and relevant. From the moment the house comes into view, its connection to the surrounding environment becomes clear. The building rests gently within a landscape of mature maple and cherry trees, allowing nature to remain the dominant presence. Instead of standing out from its surroundings, the architecture embraces a quiet approach using natural materials, low-profile roof lines, and carefully composed forms that appear to belong to the site itself. One of the most distinctive features of the property is the relationship between the main residence and a separate annex building. These structures are connected through a beautifully designed garden that follows the natural slope of the terrain. A small waterfall and water feature weave through the landscape, adding movement, sound, and a sense of tranquility. As residents move between the buildings, the garden becomes an experience in itself, reinforcing the home's strong connection to nature. Entering the main house, visitors are welcomed by a traditional domus space, an earthen-floored passage that has long been a characteristic element of Japanese homes. This transitional area runs through the ground floor, linking different parts of the house while creating a gradual shift between public and private spaces. More than just a circulation path, it encourages a slower, more deliberate experience of the architecture and the surrounding landscape. Throughout the interior, the design prioritizes visual and physical connections to the garden. Large openings frame carefully curated views of trees, stone arrangements, and flowing water outside. Natural light filters softly through sliding screens and traditional partitions, creating a calm atmosphere that changes throughout the day. Each room feels closely connected to the outdoors, allowing seasonal transformations to become part of everyday life. Material selection plays a significant role in defining the home's character. Natural wood is used extensively across ceilings, structural elements, and interior finishes, bringing warmth and texture to every space. Traditional plaster surfaces and natural stone further enhance the sense of craftsmanship. Many details were executed by local artisans, helping preserve regional building traditions while adding depth and authenticity to the renovation. As part of the transformation, several traditional tatami rooms were reconfigured to better support contemporary living. The updated layout introduces more flexible gathering spaces while maintaining the proportions and atmosphere of the original architecture. Rather than erasing the past, the renovation carefully adapts these spaces, allowing historical character and modern functionality to coexist within the same environment. The annex building provides a more private retreat within the property. Designed to accommodate guests and moments of relaxation, it offers a peaceful atmosphere, immersed in the surrounding garden. A standout feature is the hinoki wood bath positioned near large openings that overlook the landscape. Combined with filtered daylight, natural materials, and garden views, the space creates a quiet and deeply restorative experience. House in Narutaki demonstrates how historic architecture can evolve without losing its identity. Instead of relying on dramatic forms or technological statements, the project finds its strength in the relationship between architecture, landscape, craftsmanship, and daily life. The result is a home that feels serene, deeply connected to the world around it. and capable of carrying traditional Japanese design principles into the present day.