House NA: An Architectural Masterpiece in Tokyo

By Sou Fujimoto Architects

May 8, 2012

This Tokyo house by Japanese architect Sou Fujimoto has hardly any walls and is made up of a 3-D matrix of tiny rooms and exterior terraces—all located on different floor levels.

The house is encased almost entirely in clear glass, giving it the appearance of a delicate jewel box. Inside, the rooms are connected by a series of staircases and ladders, creating a playful and labyrinthine space.

House NA was designed for a young couple in a quiet Tokyo neighborhood. The architects wanted to create a home that would be both private and open, and that would allow the couple to enjoy the outdoors without leaving their home.

The house has been praised for its innovative design and its beautiful use of natural light. It has been featured in numerous publications and has won several awards, including the prestigious Golden Lion at the 2012 Venice Biennale.