Nestled two hours away from Tokyo in the peaceful village of Kamanuma, TEKITEKI-AN by 6lines studio is a tiny house that is a tribute to innovative architecture and sustainable living. TEKITEKI-AN represents a link to the natural world and the community. It is based on the Satoyama principles, which call for the peaceful coexistence of farmlands and mountain forests. This article explores the design, construction process, and larger context of urban-rural exchanges that support the Satoyama landscape's sustainable development, delving into this tiny house's complexities.
(Photo: Ryo Oyama)
The Water-Cycle Inspired Architecture
TEKITEKI-AN draws inspiration from the natural water cycle, symbolizing the journey of rain from the mountains to the sea and back. The name encapsulates this concept, with "TEKITEKI" representing the water cycle's meticulous progression and "AN" signifying a traditional Japanese small house. Placed in Kamanuma, a Satoyama village facing demographic challenges, TEKITEKI-AN becomes more than just a structure; it becomes a part of the community's efforts to sustain the environment through urban-rural exchanges.
The tiny house is strategically situated on sloping terrain, with a grass-covered roof accessible via a slope, allowing residents to pick oranges while enjoying panoramic views of the village and the sea. The windows adorning TEKITEKI-AN are not mere openings; they are a patchwork of various old windows collected from demolished vacant houses in the village. The preservation and reuse of these windows, each with a unique history, create a mesmerizing pattern of light, adding to the aesthetic appeal of the tiny house.
Constructed over six months without outsourcing, the project involved collaboration with local artisans, carpenters, and students from the Tsukamoto Laboratory of the Tokyo Institute of Technology. The construction process utilized resources obtained through daily petit works, contributing to the sustainability of the Satoyama landscape. Soil, tree branches, bamboo, and straw bags were ingeniously repurposed to create the grass roof, showcasing a positive approach towards utilizing local resources.
(Photo: Ryo Oyama)
Sustainability at Its Core
TEKITEKI-AN's design adheres to the principles of a 3m x 3m square plan, reminiscent of a traditional tea house known as "Hojo." This nine m² space is a versatile hub within Satoyama, offering moments of relaxation, remote work, or intimate dinners with breathtaking views. Despite its modest size, TEKITEKI-AN is not an isolated entity; it seamlessly integrates into the larger Satoyama network, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and community cohesion.
TEKITEKI-AN stands as a beacon of sustainable architecture, demonstrating that small spaces can significantly impact community and environmental well-being. In the heart of Kamanuma, this tiny house becomes a living testament to the possibilities of harmonizing with nature, utilizing local resources, and fostering a sense of community resilience. As TEKITEKI-AN connects the past with the present and embraces a sustainable future, it exemplifies the beauty that emerges when architecture becomes an integral part of the landscape it inhabits.