NEVER TOO SMALL: Japanese Stacked Box House, Tokyo 51sqm/549sqft

[@valeria_sue777]

This is one of the very few homes in this channel that doesn't require a sacrifice of household appliances or personal possessions and privacy within the house's layout, for the sake of tiny home and minimalism! Not my favourite design, but due to the elements named above, it is indeed one of the most unique!

[@sw6118]

I’ve often wondered whether people do anything other than work and watch tv. This looks like they have a life and a place for hobby materials should they so desire.

[@koteria_]

@@sw6118 In Japan, unfortunately, there is "workaholism"; people can work themselves to death. This causes a lot of depression and suicides :( Japan is a beautiful country and I really like this minimalism, but people there often don't have time for an ordinary life.

[@JustinWilliams-pn9sg]

This is literally the jungle gym of homes. What a unique and fun take on design.

[@MisterSynonym]

Glad to see another home with the bathroom functions compartmentalized. Someone can shower and get dressed, and it doesn't stop someone else using the toilet or doing make up etc.

[@Losshe]

This is very common in Japanese homes, regardless of size

[@avcomth]

12.75 sq. wa/51 sq.m is a huge plot of land. That crazy layering boxes design he implemented here wastes a lot of space. Could have just gone with a full scale cube and extend higher upward and create a really huge house.

[@irvines3583]

@@avcomth i think you misunderstood what he said, the house has 51 sqm of total floor area, not the land.

[@avcomth]

​@@irvines3583It doesn't matter what the size of that plot is because you can see at the beginning where they showed the outside that the compartmentisation design he utilised doesn't maximize the space+volume of this house. He could've just gone with a single bigger and higher box structure and create more than 51 sq.m. of floor space. But again, architects dont usually think logically like physicists or engineers because their visions are often skewed by their artistic ambitions.

[@manoqueenz]

@@avcomth Just because other neighboring houses are taller doesn't mean you can just build as big as you want. Zoning laws and regulations are a thing

[@danielweizman1402]

The Japanese homes are always the best, the most thoughtful, unique, and modest in their own way.

[@Dessert_x_Tat]

Agree 1000%. :D

[@antonsitepu]

indeed 👍

[@Itswesleytime]

Not always. (From personal experience) people need to realize Japanese people are living humans too and not perfect robots

[@Cinephile-gy6fb]

Mind blowing. Going to have to watch it again. It’s clever in the very best sense, giving honor to each space. The design is so fitted to the urban atmosphere and the needs of residents who will not miss anything. Bravo!!! Came back to this comment say - the kitchen is positively gargantuan by Tokyo standards!!! What’s genius about the way the architect stacked the floors is that the highest point is quite limited but gives such a generous feeling to the entire house.

[@IfeomaNwanze1ze]

Couldn’t be typed better

[@B__C__]

The only think that I can think of changing is putting a rail around the entrance level to avoid falling into the storage moat downstairs after a late night out. Safety first. 😉

[@lindagarrido4353]

Would also be very dangerous for children

[@maqywhaq]

I wouldn't because I'm a dumbass and would want to be able to just hop down from there...

[@ags1370]

I often see designs like this in cool Japanese houses, even large ones. A sheer drop from a stair or landing with no rail. If they have really small children they will put up a net or something. They seem to think an adult or child of six or older will have enough sense not to fall. I also would fall at some point though, or be very afraid of it!

[@metislamestiza3708]

any time one needs a ladder for anything in a home, i, as a self affirmed klutz, find myself cringing inside!

[@boginoid]

@@ags1370 Me and my vertigo will stay away then.

[@CherryAdora]

Genius way of maximising space 👏👏👏 And I also love that he designed the bedroom with the future in mind - possible to convert into 2 rooms and access to either rooms will not be a problem.

[@forevermorealive]

Why would anyone do that? I do appreciate this channel featuring bigger houses instead of rooms masquerading as "apartments".

[@carolarellano6396]

Space is very tight in Tokyo and houses of this size is nothing unusual. So what seems like "rooms" to you is actually an apartment in Tokyo.

[@one4all126]

Just in case a couple split up but neither can afford to move out... 😂

[@maniak942]

I wouldn't really call these 2 floors of empty space above dining room maximising anything

[@Onyx-Rose150]

​@@maniak942 I can only assume it's meant to add a loft in future, because splitting the room for anyone except kids is ludicrous.

[@wherearethecrayons6533]

This is what small spaces should be like, creative, innovative, practical, livable, beautiful, and comfy. One of the best ones on this channel. Please show more of these japaneese architects, they're amazing!! ❤❤

[@deniseferron3397]

This house feels a lot more spacious than what you would expect for something under 600 square feet. I feel deep down in my bones that I would love living in this space. Quirky, cozy and thought out down to the last detail. Genius!!

[@michelebelfiore921]

It can't be a coincidence, all the houses from Japan featured here are just amazing, it seems like they did understand how to build small places without making them feel small.

[@annephillips1870]

I’ve lived in Tokyo and people there really understand small spaces!

[@jessisoffline]

YESS! One of my favourite takes on contemporary Japanese small living.

[@morgwn2377]

Congrats to the architects. They've created such a unique and inspiring space!

[@quietestkitten]

This is such a beautiful house! You will never feel too boxed in, even though it has a small footprint. The public space is so bright and airy and open. The bedroom and private space is so cosy. The only thing I can't imagine is turning it into two bedrooms. Since the shower door is glass, this house seems best for a couple who lives alone

[@lyndaster46]

This space is super clever. I loved the bathroom bedroom arrangement so much. I felt the metal stairs would be horrific to fall down or to bump your head on. Parts of them looked really sharp. The shape of them was perfect. I loved the living space, but found the tv would be totally across the room and not that much fun to play video games on or watch if you were not seated at the dining table. I found the sofa was amazing and would easily double as guest sleeping space as needed. I might have added a softer surround for that sofa. The clean lines and simple pallet of materials is perfect. The color scheme was cool and airy. The space feels like you can seriously relax and breathe in there. The air circulation was a great idea to offset the temp fluctuations caused by the heights. I also loved the skip floor as I think he called it. what an amazing idea for smaller spaces. we often see that in larger homes, but it seems like we have been missing out on the full potential of this idea in smaller spaces. Even though this space is called "small" it really has everything and feels REALLY large. COOL!!!

[@javieraramirez4289]

This video is pure poetry. The narration in Japanese, the beautiful interior design, the natural light, the music! Thank you for the quality content

[@chuunyu]

This house feels so weird but it's so beautiful and well designed to me. I really appreciate this space.

[@girard6061]

One of the best spaces I've seen here. Great use of windows and levels. It's quirky - a bit typical of the other Tokyo houses featured on this channel.

[@LisaCobaltblue]

I think this is a remarkable design. Love it. I do wish the ladders and bottom of stairs weren't metal. I love simplicity and the beauty of the wood work. Plenty of room to store stuff. Also, a great way to exercise and stay slim with all the different levels of getting from point A to point B. Congrats. ❤

[@jrautomotive81]

This architect is a genius!!! This place feels so cozy and useful at the same time. One of the best homes I've ever seen!

[@Westguy66]

Japanese are masters of micro minimalist spaces.

[@EcomCarl]

Love how this house strikes a balance between functionality and spaciousness despite its small size. The skip floors and clever storage solutions are brilliant! 🏠

[@makbunda4730]

As a woman, I'm so impressed with the idea design. The concept is brilliant to compact all the needed items within small area but still can be functionally huge stored and it looked tidy.

[@Pilikoa]

Seems spacious. You can tell a lot of thought went into each space and its functionality. I like the living room, he can actually have a small group of friends over and not feel cramped. He has space to work or spread out a newspaper. Having the bed and bath on the same level is a bonus.

[@bonnieechmalian2158]

Very interesting design. The dining/living area doesn't seem very comfortable or anyplace to hang out. The front entrance could have been made to access one of the floors with stairs and created better flow. There is so much height that feels like wasted space. I agree with other comments about safety.

[@user-hr9hg2eh5c]

I personally think it’s much more fun in his way. And it gives more sun lights with better privacy.

[@itsserhioball]

It's always a pleasure when the video about the Japanese apartment or house. Great work with space and so many unusual things! Bravo to the architect who designed all of this. It would be great to know the feedback from the owners but I love the idea of this separate world inside the house was made and enjoyed the video.

[@musicismylove92]

Absolutely love this home - maximizing the functionality while still being stylish, unique, and having all that the owners need!

[@animekirby100]

In the United States, there is a kind of floor plan called a “split level”. Basically, there’s a foyer or entrance area, which splits into an upstairs and basement. It’s out of style these days because the ceiling height is usually a little low for today’s standards, but in the past it was a way to make small affordable houses with a little more room for preference. This kind of house reminds me of that.

[@LisaCobaltblue]

I remember visiting a friend in Mount Vernon Washington. They had the split level home as you suggested. Top floor was bedrooms and bathrooms, lower floor was kitchen and living room. They also had a basement they called a rumpus room I think. They said it was done like this because it was raining all the time. Needed a place to play and room to exercise. All this and a way for parents not to be disturbed by the noise.

[@anitamcgrath906]

You realize that this home is the same measurements as some peoples living rooms, you can think of it as a North American split level, but it’s smaller than what anyone in North America is used to living in, it could be compared to a New York apartment

[@catmeow49]

I usually don't like living in the basement but this basement is FIRE!!!! I LOVE IT

[@reiko334]

Interesting design! Tho personally I would change the western-style bed for a futon so the bedroom feels bigger and also I can set it aside and spend time there during winter because it kinda looks cozier than the main area.

[@csengevass864]

Wow, what an interesting, unique design! I also loved that the narration was in Japanese in this video as I always prefer when owners/designers speak in their original language, it gives more character to the story and I'm ok to read subtitles.

[@sharkzliew]

I love the use of galvanized materials, design and layout of this house. I can so see myself living in it. Thanks for this video.

[@anaghamalvade6433]

This Architect is nothing short of Genius, Bravo!! He could have added a folding Dining Table to give more space useability on the fist floor!!

[@AndrewRalte-t2z]

My grandpa grew up in a multi level bamboo house and he really likes this design. Says it gives him nostalgia. My fat 20 year old body could never.

[@purple_scorp146]

How clever to have two storeys and split the entrance level between them.

[@kimberleyrigg7503]

Brilliant and unique design so impressed with the amount of storage. The decor is not to my taste but this is a great example of small living design.

[@shattermirror]

This place feels so cosy and livable in a really practical day-to-day way!

[@Smudgie33]

Well it’s certainly unique! I know space is at a premium over there and I think they have made the most of the space they have for sure.

[@robertsmiff]

This is so cool. I love the idea of going 'downstairs' to sleep. Looks so cosy. What a stunning house!

[@ags1370]

I love it too, but I wonder what flooding is like in the area. In Japan there are a lot of torrential rains and even mud slides. I am sure the architect thought of that, but I would have liked to hear what they did to mitigate those concerns. Even in NYC that is a problem for basement apartments when it rains really hard. I wonder if there was a limit to how high this structure could be given the neighborhood. Amazing design though. I love the layered feeling and all the ways to "peek through" the house to different levels.

[@Erika-gm2tf]

Yes! Bedroom areas are so often upstairs where it's hot. Basement is better--cooler for better sleep and smarter use of resources.

[@cecilej435]

It is beautiful , very aesthetic and cleverly designed, but I can't help feeling that this is a very complicated layout and I didn't feel the impression of space despite the high ceilings. I'd be always worrying about falling down on those steps and banging my head on the lower ceiling >

[@Test-eb9bj]

My perception too, could not express it better!

[@Itsmemaiteg]

I really like this design. It’s very unique and there’s a lot of storage which I love. My only issue would probably be the danger of falling off the different levels. There’s nothing to stop this from happening. For example, you wouldn’t want someone with a young child come and visit you or they can really hurt themselves. Maybe adding some glass walls would fix this problem.

[@foxley95]

its landed and quite big compared to your usual tiny apartment, i'd take this house anytime

[@demdguN]

Nice design! Very clever use of space. But looking at his house from the outside, why couldn't he simply build a larger house?

[@JamesHK19]

Such a wonderfully harmonious home. A new favourite.

[@GTR72]

Finally a small place in japan with some actual thought and design put behind it! This place is amazing, clean, minimal and maximizes the small space.

[@ivydaphne7483]

The layout and the space is so unique and whimsical. The tour just made me happy. It's the kind of place I wanna try to live in.

[@dayanarojascruz8481]

The design is so fitted to the urban atmosphere and the needs of residents who will not miss anything. What’s genius about the way the architect stacked the floors is that the highest point is quite limited but gives such a generous feeling to the entire house.

[@GuiAntonioli]

I'd make the bedroom in the "third" (currently non existing) floor, leave second floor for kitchen and dinning room only and make a living room in the basement.

[@vinceburden4395]

The space is so interesting that the architect revolutionize the floor plan from typical 1-2 floors to 1,½,&1 ½ floors.

[@Mkrabs]

I love this little house. Small yet spacious. Metal holding Wood. Unconventionally organized. I would love to live in such a house :)

[@Wundernuss]

This is by far one of my favourite places I’ve seen so far that’s so logical , simple and practical for every function with a bit of fun!

[@yasminedey8612]

Different levels and corners make the flat look bigger - I'd never thought it only being 51qm

[@anjcuyegkeng]

The concealed AC unit was a nice touch

[@YotamGuttman]

2:23 I know you've included captions in the KZbin player but you didn't account for them when the floorplan is displayed. the subs cover the floorplan... just a sidenote.

[@rabbitsandphilodendron]

Very cool and clever space! Also, tough owner, the living room sofa and dining chairs do not really look comfortable..

[@edisonchin2463]

^ the comment I am looking for. Worst of all is the distance between sofa and TV.

[@judit1783]

I love to see how small spaces are designed for different personalities and needs. Great space.

[@enooeeelelee_]

The amount of storage is amazing! Dividing the bedroom into 2 rooms is ridiculous, but other than that, love it.

[@SF-ru3lp]

A fascinating design. So much achieved within the space. Every function is catered for in an ample and luxurious manner. I love the sleek, minimal style. Congrats to the architect. What a bright and exciting house to live in! P.S. To NTS Team: 1. I was delighted to call up the English 'subtitles' but was frustrated that key information was hidden by your thumbnail advert for several seconds. I started tapping all the wrong parts of the screen to try and get rid of the 'tag' (sorry!) in order to keep with the apartment description. Could that tag be shown in the top left hand corner of the screen? 2. The camera was showing the recessed underneath of the kitchen units BUT it was exactly at the same level on the screen as the subtitles! It's not the worst thing but it is frustrating for the viewer and interrupts one's concentration. (I am an eye-brain- language nerd!) I do love your video style tho. Thank you and best regards to all. G Ire

[@nevertoosmall]

Appreciate the feedback. We'll look to address these going forward. Thanks for the support ❤️

[@SF-ru3lp]

@@nevertoosmall Thank you for your message! Best regards! G Ire 🤗

[@douglasthompson296]

Good use of space BUT its for younger folks with a full mobiliy, all that ladder climbing, no good if he started a family there, a nightmare watching little ones with all those drop spaces.

[@edisonchin2463]

It's stated that the owner plans on short term living only.

[@kartikpal1809]

I have seen many never too small house video, but House was an amazing like something unique is there I love its architecturing, its layout and its interior

[@Dessert_x_Tat]

This house is perfection! Every detail in it is a brilliant one. Thank you Never too Small for another great video.

[@pokelover109]

Treasure designer， made this small house spacious and satisfied all the necessary functions. Great job👍

[@fastandcurious]

I love the structure of the house. I would only change some details, like a sofa that can be moved and changed, "sofa ceiling" at about 220cm rather than the 190 (?), wood floors to make it warmer for barefoot usage. The ladder is designed by people who don't use them and prefer look over function :-) . You can see that the tubular design of the steps is uncomfortable for the person climbing them. I wondered about the horizontal application of the corrugated steel outside. To me vertically corrugated seems more logical for rain drainage, but maybe this is not important at all? Like other commentators I wonder about terraces or mini roof gardens... But all of theses are details. The overall design is stunning and I would love to know the construction costs.

[@manzar42]

what an excellent use of space!

[@emanuelebianchetti2803]

It seems a non-Euclidean design! Amazing!

[@Pinhegas]

this is one of the greatests house designs i've seen. pure genius

[@crystalkirkman]

Brilliant use it putting the bedroom in the basement to be more of a cocoon and the main living area very light and spacious. Well done! 👏

[@tob855]

This is actually one of the smarter designs I've seen on NTS. Amazing use of space.

[@joannecolumbine8590]

Good use of space but there also needs to be some thought given to safety (too many gaps between levels and that ladder looked downright dangerous) and either the Japanese are not interested in a comfortable sofa, or architects aren’t.

[@johnjanvelsaldo9830]

What a clever design. Overall, the house is modern, functional and cozy.

[@SCANNO21]

You have to be young.. but what intelligence of space, and what fun ! The best of all japanese episodes so far for me.

[@TamaraJoy7]

I think this small home is absolutely genius!! What a fascinating design! Excellent use of vertical space with design ideas I’ve never seen before. I actually loved the bed in the center of the room and the fact that it was downstairs.

[@maggiebkny]

I love the idea of using skip levels to maximise space and interest.

[@arjash2228]

Great layout and use spaces, It looks cozy. That said Im concerned about the lack of guard rails in the entrance area and the exposed edges on the steel stairs :()

[@oleksandrhr3949]

this house is a real gem. Love it

[@tedhuang5458]

Love this split-level house. It's small but feels spacious with lots of natural light from all the windows. A real kitchen, plenty of storage, laundry, shower, this house has everything to live comfortably. The architect did a wonderful job!

[@avcomth]

12.75 sq. wa/51 sq.m is a huge plot of land. That crazy layering boxes design he implemented here wastes a lot of space. Could have just gone with a full scale cube and extend higher upward and create a really huge house.

[@0ozmichka0]

No he can’t there are building restrictions about max height, earthquake proofness depth of foundation etc! Also the house is 51 sqm total, the plot is much smaller, like half that 😐

[@KimberlyCook-j3o]

I love this design. It makes so much use of all the space.😊

[@MakeMeThinkAgain]

An amazingly practical and interesting space... so long as you are ambulatory. Why don't I see the heat relocating more often? It's such an obvious idea. My only complaint is that it seems to only bring the heat down to the kitchen level. If it went al the way down to the bedroom level it could heat that space and then drift up to the kitchen level.

[@TheDrcrisp]

Hope it use Galvanised Steel

[@TheSushmaHomeSellingTeam]

This concept showcases the beauty of simplicity and functionality in a bustling metropolis like Tokyo. ❤❤

[@GodhumaWellness]

this home surely could be rent as Airbnb in the future! so unique

This is one of my favorite homes of this channel! So practical and beautiful. Every detail is perfect for me!

[@k.vasanthamohan]

Perfectly tiny home without any compromise

[@kalinaluz1106]

Yes! Everyone can work with lots of space. The challenge is is to create airy feeling and find at the same time a practical solutions for living. Better to ask for help a designer instead doing error after error with the furniture and quality of living, that will cost much more in the long run. The only thing that I do not like is the bedroom in the basement, but it is difficult to judge from a video. Maybe, it is not so claustrophobic as it comes to my mind. ❤ I really admire the Japanese people for the way they coexist with nature and with one another on such a small territory!!! Inspiring!

[@conniebruckner8190]

The architect has thought of many ways to bring in light and a sense of spaciousness in what would otherwise be constrained by sq.m limits. I might have added some kind of hammock or swing on that split level, where the steps go up to, just for fun.

[@pang-ngiavang1956]

Love the design of this home💜

[@MLA0686]

Wow. So elegant. I also had no idea I could get lost weaving through all the rooms in such a small space. It felt fun.

[@patrickexplorer2088]

Space efficiency and minimalist design ❤🎉

[@dorthy1666]

Gorgeous use of space. Window placement is extremely thoughtful. I love that recirculating fan.

[@headcorewar7453]

The house is very beautiful and livable

[@michelestapleton]

This space is fascinating. And very calming.

[@tinekejoldersma]

It has storage space, plenty of it! Love the light, the possibilities for the future of a second room, and the levels. It hurt to watch him climb that stairs to reach the window and that couch looked so uncomfortable. For the rest, fantastic.

[@decoratordan630]

good choice on terracotta tiles.

[@SilviaSbraNutri]

What I like the most is the big kitchen. Very often small houses have tiny kitchens as if the owners never cook. What I dislike is the sofa, doesn't seem cozy to me.

[@sijoneyyan]

The multilevel design looks brilliant, even if the front doors open to the street, the unique design stops it from being intrusive. I'm mostly concerned about any floods that may occur, don't know if the locality is prone from it.

[@ozornin]

Удивительная игра с пространством. Нижний уровень получился очень уютным, приватным и функциональным. В то время как общественное пространство создаёт многоуровневый объём

[@Sedgar232]

I love this house. I’d love to live there. It’s so light and airy

[@機械狸貓]

The vertical space design is awesome. I wish I could have a house like this.

[@nikhafizal1246]

the first house I liked on this channel.

[@eggizgud]

Love the placement of the bathroom and toilet.