Spanish studio ARK Architects has completed a minimalist residence encased in staircases to preserve ancient trees on the plot in Benahavís, Spain. Named Villa Kaizen, the home fits snugly between several leafy trees. The name “kaizen” translates from Japanese to mean “improvement” and refers to the home’s strict minimalism, which nods to archetypal Andalusian villas.
Derksen Windt Architecten‘s Concrete Split-level House in Capelle aan den IJssel, Netherlands, showcases a masterful design that transforms a typical Dutch terraced house into a sculptural, light-filled home.
Blending robust materials like fair-faced concrete with innovative wooden floors, this 2020 project creates a refined, sustainable living experience within a characteristic building envelope.
This captivating project by IDEOLOGIST Bureau in Moscow, Russia, takes inspiration from the Japanese concept of “nisetai jutaku,” or dual family homes, to create a harmonious and adaptable living space. Designed in 2021, the house seamlessly merges two contemporary residences, offering both communal living and individual privacy. With strategic use of natural light, warm lighting, and a minimalist aesthetic, the design evokes the timeless aesthetics of Japanese architecture while prioritizing functionality and well-being.