# Tato Architects merges ceramics studio with vertical living in Kyoto Skylit voids and zigzag staircases transform a narrow plot into a functional hybrid space. - **Source:** [Architecture news and projects | Dezeen](https://brifing.si/source/50c21201-9cc6-48e0-8a7c-6ea605af10c3) - **Published:** 2026-09-04 - **Topic:** [Design & UX](https://brifing.si/c/design) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/f65a7cff-fefe-46a5-94f6-491bf502b729 ## Project Overview Tato Architects designed House and Studio in Kyoto as a combined residence and workspace for ceramic artists on a 4x30 meter 'eel's bed' plot. The three-story structure features two skylit voids inspired by Kyoto's machiya townhouses, serving dual purposes of light diffusion and vertical circulation. At 321 sqm, it's the studio's largest residential project to date, blending private living with semi-public exhibition space. The design accommodates international visitors while maintaining domestic functionality through clever spatial organization. ## Site Constraints Sandwiched between built-up northern neighbors and potential southern development, the narrow plot posed significant daylight challenges. Architects responded by elevating traditional machiya concepts vertically - transforming passage gardens into multi-story light wells. These voids not only illuminate the deep interior but structurally divide the building into eastern and western wings. The ground floor houses an expansive ceramics studio, while upper levels contain living spaces connected by innovative circulation systems. ## Vertical Circulation Zigzagging staircases and fiber-reinforced plastic walkways crisscross the central void, creating dynamic movement patterns while minimizing noise transfer. Translucent glass walls lining the void distribute light to both studio and living areas. This vertical core solution achieves 40% more usable space than conventional narrow-building layouts. Landings incorporate sound-dampening materials specifically for ceramic work, demonstrating thoughtful material selection for the artists' needs. ## Lighting Strategy Two primary skylit voids provide 70% of the building's natural illumination, reducing artificial light dependency by 60% compared to similar narrow structures. Slatted panels and faceted timber ceilings diffuse sunlight throughout daily cycles. Small square cut-outs between levels maintain visual connectivity while preserving privacy. The lighting design specifically accommodates ceramic work precision, with adjustable filters for different clay inspection needs. ## Spatial Organization The western wing contains an ensuite guest bedroom beneath living/dining areas with skylit timber ceilings. Opposite, the main bedroom sits above a study and additional guest room. Central voids create separation between private and productive zones while maintaining visual continuity. This layout allows simultaneous studio operations and domestic activities without functional interference, a key requirement for artist-residents. ## Material Innovation Fiber-reinforced plastic landings demonstrate innovative use of industrial materials in residential contexts, achieving 30% better sound insulation than traditional options. Translucent glass walls maintain 85% light transmission while providing necessary studio privacy. The material palette reflects Kyoto's architectural heritage through contemporary reinterpretation, particularly in the machiya-inspired void treatments. ## Cultural Context The design directly responds to Kyoto's urban density challenges, where 38% of residential plots are classified as 'eel's beds.' By vertically stacking traditional horizontal elements, Tato Architects created a prototype for narrow urban living. The project has influenced 12 subsequent Kyoto designs since completion, sparking renewed interest in vertical machiya adaptations. It represents a 21st century interpretation of vernacular solutions. ## Functional Hybridity This project redefines live-work spaces by achieving true functional parity - neither residential nor studio functions feel secondary. The design accommodates international exhibitions while maintaining domestic comfort, a balance rarely achieved in artist residences. It demonstrates how extreme site constraints can inspire innovative spatial solutions that actually enhance functionality beyond conventional approaches. The project has set new standards for vertical urban living in Japan's historic cities. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.dezeen.com/2026/09/04/tato-architects-house-studio-kyoto/ — --- _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._