Azby Brown Bücher

How the mindset of traditional Japanese society can guide our own efforts to lead a green lifestyle today.

This inspiring book surveys the creative design innovations of small houses in Japan, showcasing eighteen recently built and unique homes, ranging from ultramodern to rustic styles. It emphasizes the "big idea" behind each house—elements that enhance the perception of spaciousness. These ideas include ingenious natural light sources, thoughtfully designed loft spaces, functional kitchens, unobtrusive partitions, and clear circulation paths. An introductory section contextualizes these homes within contemporary lifestyle trends and highlights their common features. The detailed Houses section explains the intentions of both designers and occupants, revealing a human sensibility that reflects the dreams and aspirations these unique homes embody, despite their modest appearances. The second half illustrates special features, such as innovative storage solutions, kitchen designs, and revolutionary skylights and partitions. Building small is portrayed as a sign of higher ambitions, encouraging readers to appreciate the positive and creative potential of small homes. This collection offers homeowners, designers, and architects a wealth of ideas, demonstrating how small living can enhance life in unexpected ways.