# Minimalist family home in Tokyo Kenta Hirayama designs steel-clad house prioritizing natural light and privacy. - **Source:** [Architecture news and projects | Dezeen](https://brifing.si/source/50c21201-9cc6-48e0-8a7c-6ea605af10c3) - **Published:** 2026-07-22 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/e79d23ea-e00a-41ec-9f6a-0c204513d63c ## A serene oasis in a dense neighborhood Japanese architect Kenta Hirayama designed a minimalist home for a young family in Tokyo's Setagaya district. The 145-square-meter structure balances natural light and privacy despite its proximity to neighboring buildings. The simple gabled roof form references traditional Japanese houses. ## Low-maintenance steel facade The exterior is clad in galvanized steel sheets, chosen for their widespread use in Japan, cost-effectiveness and durability. The steel panels also create both decorative and functional details like the small eave above the entrance door, providing protection from rain. ## Double-height studio for the artist owner The ground floor features a double-height studio specifically designed for the artist homeowner. The south-facing bedroom is set back from the street to create distance from the adjacent house. This layout ensures privacy while allowing abundant sunlight into the interior spaces. ## Calm interiors with natural materials Contrasting the industrial exterior, the interiors feature light-colored natural wood. The structural framework made of cedar and pine was finished with gray-toned oil. Walls and ceilings use white paint with a hint of gray to create a warm atmosphere throughout the living spaces. ## Tokyo's innovative residential architecture This house in Kinuta exemplifies creative housing solutions in Tokyo's dense urban fabric. The architectural design focuses on maximizing comfort within limited space. Its simple form and natural materials harmonize with surrounding traditional buildings in the neighborhood. ## Modern living with functional details The project presents a contemporary interpretation of Japanese minimalist aesthetics. Large windows, custom lighting systems and smart storage solutions address modern living needs. The design promises sustainable and peaceful living in an urban environment. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.dezeen.com/2026/07/22/kenta-hirayama-house-in-kinuta/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._