"ANJIN Gosho Ebisugawa" is a fully renovated traditional Japanese townhouse near Kyoto's Imperial Palace, now serving as a whole-house rental accommodation. The design concept centers on expressing the "aesthetics of depth" and "gracefulness." Highlighting the depth and tranquility unique to traditional Kyoto townhouses (Kyo-machiya), combined with modern design, this project blends Kyoto's cultural heritage with contemporary comforts.

The property features a broad frontage and a small tsuboniwa (courtyard garden) at the rear. The layout reveals new spatial sequences as visitors move through, expressing the "gracefulness" derived from the "depth" of the space and the linear structure characteristic of Kyo-machiya, even within the building's limited depth.

Due to new barrier-free regulations, a ramp was required at the entrance. This constraint was creatively used to form a unique U-turn entrance. Past the narrow, dimly lit doma (earthen-floor corridor), visitors encounter a serene and mysterious atmosphere. Seamless LED lighting guides the way as the space opens into a large living area. The light continues to a large sliding shoji door, beyond which lies a stone-tiled bathtub. Natural light filters through the window beside the bathtub, offering glimpses of the tsuboniwa and seasonal changes, such as autumn leaves. This spatial flow allows guests to naturally experience the depth and beauty of the house.

A carefully planned lighting design enhances the interiors. Seamless LED lighting emphasizes pathways while softly illuminating the rooms, guiding guests from the everyday into a serene, extraordinary setting. The balance of brightness and shadow evokes the dim ambiance of traditional Kyoto houses, enhancing the sense of gracefulness.

The tsuboniwa, though small, embodies the serenity and beauty of the accommodation. By connecting the living, dining, and bath areas seamlessly, guests can enjoy views of the tsuboniwa from anywhere in the house. The large stone bathtub not only serves as a design highlight but also offers a relaxing view of the tsuboniwa. With its interplay of natural light and autumn leaves, the courtyard creates a peaceful atmosphere that reflects the changing seasons, offering an authentic Kyoto experience.

This project respects Kyoto's architectural culture and the essence of Kyo-machiya while blending it with modern design. By preserving the Kyo-machiya’s historical value and updating it for modern use, we aim to create a space that honors the past while contributing to the spirit of old Kyoto as it moves into the future.