Grand Kyomachiya with an annex in Nishijin

A creatively renovated, large-scale Kyomachiya in Nishijin

Located in the Nishijin, an area renowned for its silk weaving heritage, this Kyomachiya dates back to 1927 and was originally a residence engaged in Nishijin textile production. Under the current owner's sensibilities, the Machiya's traditional charm has been preserved while introducing a new context through a creative renovation.

The main house, with its divided usage on the first and second floors, is suitable for multi-generational living. Additionally, there is a detached annex at the rear of the property currently in tenanted.

PLAN

The front-facing "main house" is a Kyomachiya that faces the street. In 2020, both the main house and the detached annex underwent a renovation, transforming the main house into a layout where the first and second floors can be used separately.

On the 1st floor, there is a sunken-floor living-dining-kitchen with earthen flooring. Brightened by indirect lighting from the ceiling and natural light from the windows, it is currently serving as an atelier. The 2nd floor retains the original layout but incorporates a pitched ceiling in the dining and kitchen areas. Artistic sensibilities are evident, with the energetic use of red colors, and a slide has been created on the Hibukuro aisle for descending to the 1st floor.

Rather than a complete overhaul, the building has been renovated while preserving elements that evoke the charm of a traditional townhouse. It introduces a Kyomachiya where art is enjoyed in daily life, promoting a rich and vibrant lifestyle.

Renovation Highlights:

• All materials used are natural; no plastics or plastic derivatives are used (except the bath module).
• Adhesives, paints, sealers, etc., are non-toxic and free from harmful chemicals.
• Harmful electromagnetic and radio frequencies are nearly eliminated through special electrical installations. For example, the red switch in the bedroom helps "cut off" the current during sleep.
• No products emitting gas during or after construction are used.
• Construction waste has been minimized for environmental conservation.

PHOTOS

main house

(taken in Nov 2023)

annex

(taken in Oct 2020)

AREA

This property is situated in the "Nishijin area”, known for its abundance of preserved traditional Machiya townhouses, especially located westward along Omiya Street in Kyoto. The vicinity includes charming locations that beckon exploration, such as Ogawa Street with ties to the tea ceremony, Kuramaguchi Street lined with shops and galleries housed in Machiyas, and Mountain Funayama which offers panoramic views of the "Gozan-no-Okuribi2 (the Daimonji Bonfires). It's an enticing location that invites you to explore and fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Kyoto.

DETAILS