Pyramid Hut by IGArchitects is Inspired by Okinawan Tombs

Situated on a narrow, sloping site in Okinawa, Japan, the Pyramid hut by IGArchitects Masato Igarashi was planned for a couple. Designed in 2024, the house resembles a pyramid, inspired by Okinawan tombs and incorporating elements like concrete and wooden structures. Set among apartments and a cemetery, the house maintains privacy and dignity with its pyramid shape, reflecting Okinawa’s climate and cultural influences.

A modern, triangular concrete structure with a wooden entrance and surrounding greenery.
This structure by Japanese studio IGArchitects features a pyramid-like form, drawing inspiration from traditional Okinawan tombs.

Pyramid hut was created for a married couple in Okinawa, Japan, with the construction spanning five years.

Located on a long, narrow site surrounded by apartments and a cemetery, the site features a gentle slope.

Minimalist kitchen with exposed concrete walls, wood cabinets, and a long, narrow layout.
According to Igarashi Architects, “the location feels like the bottom of a valley” as the trees surrounding the adjacent cemetery encompassed the site, resulting in a space that resembled the cemetery itself.

Instead of designing a house that had numerous openings typical of structures in Okinawa, Igarashi Architects created a house that embraced the surroundings but maintained privacy and dignity through a pyramid shape.

Modern industrial-style kitchen with concrete walls, wooden shelves, and open layout.

Pyramid Hut Designed with “Okinawan Character”

“There is calm action born only from a closed space that does not lose its autonomy amid its complicated surroundings. This intangible phenomena is called ‘sha’ in Japan, and is sacred grounds or places where festivals and celebrations are held,” said Igarashi Architects.
A modern concrete structure with a sleek, minimalist interior design featuring wooden accents.
The influence of traditional Okinawan tombs is evident in the raised pyramid form. According to the studio, these tombs “are very splendid” and designed to endure Okinawa’s climate and serve as gathering spaces for ancestors.

“Old tombs in Okinawa provide a function as places of gathering, celebration, and reverence and a “home” for the ancestors,” said Igarashi Architects.

“Although the form may seem bizarre, this concrete house resulted with graceful Okinawan character,” the studio added.

An interior space with a sloping, concrete ceiling, wooden cabinets, and elevated levels.
“The building that we designed and completed came out looking somewhat like a pyramid or a tomb. However, when I saw the completed structure, it felt as though it was imbued with the sense of permanence and festivity that Okinawa’s ancestors instilled in their tombs.”
Minimal, industrial-style bedroom with wooden built-in furniture and concrete walls.

Okinawa Structural Elements Incorporated

The living space rises in three levels to fit to the sloped plot, with old Ryukyu limestone lining the floor of the exterior and interior of the structure.

“We wanted to build an architecture that will be loved and used over time, even after the owner or its function changes,” said the studio.

Dramatic concrete architecture with angular exterior and minimalist interior.
The house features relatively small openings and is lit by a skylight at the top of the pyramid.

An entrance area and bathroom occupy the first level of the house, while curved earth retaining walls separate it from the next living and dining space.

The uppermost level houses the living quarters and study space, all featuring a concrete finish.

Striking concrete and wood structure with a distinctive triangular shape and recessed entrance.
A modern concrete structure with unique geometric patterns, framed by lush foliage.
A concrete pyramidal structure surrounded by lush greenery and yellow flowers.

Photography by Ooki Jingu
Visit IGArchitects Masato Igarashi

- by Matt Watts

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