Aside from the massive population of smokers, the Japanese, in general, are a very healthy people. They get lots of exercise, eat healthy and, in turn, benefit from one of the highest life expectancies in the world. But the mentality extends beyond lifestyle and gastronomy, even to architecture, where designers come up with creative solutions that enable residents to exercise and keep in shape – both physically and mentally – in the comfort of their own home. Here are 5 Japanese homes that help you keep in shape.
3 way house by naf architect & design
The sport of rock climbing is one of the best all-over exercises you can do for your body as well as your mind. But it’s not the most accessible as most people don’t have boulders in their back yards and rock climbing gyms can be expensive. But imagine if you had a rock wall in your own home! This unassuming 2-story house in Tokyo by naf features a climbing wall that scales a central courtyard and extends all the way to the roof.
photos by Toshiyuki Yano | click to enlarge
Reversible Destiny Lofts by Arakawa + Gins
Originally built in East Hampton, NY and later replicated in Mitaka, a suburb of Tokyo, the Reversible Destiny Lofts are, according to the architects, supposed to oppose death. It’s undulating concrete floors force residents to use their bodies in unexpected ways to maintain equilibrium which, in turn, “will stimulate their immune systems.”
photos by Eric Stiffler | click to enlarge
KKC by no.555
An elevated residence in Kanagawa designed by Takuya Tsuchida. A central alleyway is lined with natural grass and functions as a mini golf course so you can work on your swing by simply stepping out of your door. However, long shots are frowned upon by neighbors.
photos by Torimura Koichi | click to enlarge
House T by Hiroyuki Shinozaki Architects
Recent studies have shown that one’s sense of balance begins to degrade in your 20s and that it’s downhill – literally and figuratively – from there. But maintaining that delicate sense of equilibrium is critical to your health and this house in Tokyo by Hiroyuki Shinozaki Architects can help. The 4-story house features huge rectangular holes in the walls and floors, forcing residents to maintain a keen consciousness of their bodies and their surroundings. And I emphasize “forcing” as not doing so can, consequently, be hazardous to their health.
photos by Hiroyasu Sakaguchi | click to enlarge
Terrace Step House by HUG
Walking up stairs is one of the best-kept secrets in preventive medicine. In fact, if you’ve ever been to a cardiologist you may have been told that you’re fit enough to have sex if you can walk up 2 or 3 flights of stairs comfortably. But sometimes walking up and down indoor steps just doesn’t cut it. That’s where Toshihiro Yamada’s house comes in. It features steps that start just above ground level and climbs all the way over the roof.
photos by Satoshi Asakawa | click to enlarge
October 16, 2012 at 3:25 pm
haha! that’s fun!
agnes
🙂