TAKATINA: A Unique Architectural Gem in CS Residence Unveiled on ArchDaily

Textual description supplied by the architects. The CS Residence is a contemporary home that was initially constructed in 2004. It is nestled quietly on a hilltop, providing a view of an expansive six-acre landscape framed by lush trees. TAKATINA was contacted by the clients, a physician and his partner, a previous pastry chef, for a refurbishment and extension that included a new dining pavilion and new furnishings to enhance the environment to align with their lifestyle preferences. A Japanese-inspired garden pavilion was also included to improve the entry experience and the sight from the living room.

The L-shaped blackened cedar slat enclosure is meticulously arranged at the front of the residence, which
creates a striking contrast with the monolithic CMU (concrete block walls). This delineates the slender entry pathway and garden while obstructing the view of the carport from the living area. The Pietra Royal stepping stone guides one to the concealed blackened cedar entrance door. The approach offers a glimpse of the garden through the slat enclosure. This design aims to create a moment to pause and relish the tranquil setting, similar to a path leading to a tea house in Kyoto. The hidden gutter was incorporated to further enhance the crisp monolithic look.

The dining area pavilion was constructed in the prior sunroom’s position featuring a striking floor-to-ceiling aluminum storefront glass system that captures a southern vista and provides access to the new stone garden terrace with outdoor seating. The walnut flooring contrasts with the surrounding concrete surfaces. The extensible walnut dining table and black-stained oak chairs, accompanied by a sculptural Dot pendant light, imbue the space with warmth. The shaker wood stove serves elegantly as an anchor for the small seating area within the pavilion.

The garden pavilion appears to extend into the living area through the sliding door. It
provides a tranquil backdrop to observe the seasonal changes, acting as a focal point within the environment. The highly tactile and visually inviting color scheme is presented in the furnishings, which balance the contrast between the polished concrete flooring and gallery-like ambiance. The customized marble coffee table anchors the space, while the chocolate-hued leather sofa and white boucle swivel armchairs are positioned to take in the outside view while enjoying the corner Stuv wood stove indoors. The newly installed, timeless lighting fixture arrangement was designed to emphasize the client’s minimalistic design aesthetic preference. The evolution will proceed to phase 2 kitchen and bathroom renovations to finalize our master plan.