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Architecture

2021

A couple built a main house on their land just outside Moscow. A while later, they added a guest house with a bathhouse at a distance from the main house. Initially, the distance seemed insignificant, but it soon became a hassle, especially during the cold season, making the use of the guest house quite inconvenient.

They saw a potential solution in creating a connecting gallery between the two buildings. However, the designs they received from other architects either didn't appeal to them or were technically unfeasible. Progress was finally made when one potential contractor shared the IDEOLOGIST’s portfolio with them. The husband and wife, who had long been interested in Japan, were intrigued by the concepts.

IDEOLOGIST’s architects were inspired by the Japanese concept of nisetai jutaku — dual family homes that typically accommodate the senior generation and their children.

The bureau aimed to merge two contemporary residences into a unified, functional space that facilitates both communal living and individual privacy. Mimicking the nisetai jutaku design, both homes maintain separate entrances, private bedrooms, and kitchens, while being connected by a large, central living or dining area. This layout promotes a lifestyle where residents can enjoy togetherness when desired and retreat to their personal spaces for privacy.

Moscow,Russia

Architects	:	Ideologist
Area	:	2152 sq. ft.
Year	:	2021
Website	:	https://www.instagram.com/ideologist.plus

Living room of Jutaku-inspired house by Ideologist

The project's design ethos was centered around natural light to create an inviting, adaptable environment that reflects the passage of time, echoing the transient yet timeless nature of Japanese architectural aesthetics. To achieve this, strategic elements such as a skylight gallery, transparent side roofing, and floor-to-ceiling windows were integrated. These details make the inside feel different throughout the day, helping people living there feel closer and encouraging them to share time together as the sunlight changes.

The evening atmosphere in the communal spaces is equally important. With carefully chosen lighting options, the area transitions into a warm and intimate space where families can comfortably come together at night, capturing the warm spirit of jutaku.

Dining of Jutaku-inspired house by Ideologist

In keeping with the holistic approach to well-being prevalent in Japanese culture, an ambient SPA zone was introduced on the basement level of the home. Natural light filters through a unique see-through floor and additional windows, creating a serene wellness retreat directly accessible from within the house.

True to minimalist design principles, the aesthetic choices throughout the residences prioritize simplicity, functionality, and harmony. Furniture and decor were thoughtfully selected to embrace and reflect the architectural philosophy of integrating two living spaces while maintaining continuity and a sense of unity across the entire home.

Merging the two buildings, particularly on sloped terrain, and achieving a unified look and functionality posed significant challenges. Drawing inspiration from the adaptability of Japanese architecture, we carefully adjusted the floor levels and selected facade materials that would bring aesthetic and structural harmony to both sections of the home, successfully creating a cohesive living space.