TPOD

Takasegawa project

Located along the Takase River, this residence stands in the Kiyamachi district, the heart of Kyoto’s vibrant commercial area. During the design process, we made every effort to create a tranquil environment as a luxury residence that reflects Kyoto’s refined sense of beauty and high-quality living—despite being situated in the lively center of the city.

Kyoto, with over a thousand years of history, is a densely populated city where architectural techniques and wisdom have evolved to prioritize privacy and elegance. A prime example is the Kyo-machiya townhouse, known for its narrow façade but spacious interiors, often featuring covered passageways (tori-niwa) and small inner gardens (tsubo-niwa), offering a unique surprise when entering.

We incorporated this Kyo-machiya concept into our project by creating a secluded world that is shielded from the outside environment. A discreet exterior wall separates the residence from the bustling surroundings. Passing through the gate, residents are welcomed by a water-featured passageway that leads to an inner garden, reflecting the ambiance of the nearby Takase River and creating a peaceful entrance space.

From the higher-level units, residents can enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto’s iconic “Five Mountains” (Gozan), offering a unique experience of life in Kyoto. Through these design elements, we hope residents can fully immerse themselves in the beauty of nature as it changes with the seasons, and in the timeless history of Kyoto.