PROPERTY Zenith Akasaka
ZENITH AKASAKA: We take you on a tour of Housing Japan’s recent luxury creation Photos: Alfie Goodrich
Architect
Kenji Mizukami
Embodying the Japanese principles of Zen—a state of calm attentiveness in which one’s actions are guided by intuition rather than conscious effort—Zenith Akasaka is a sanctuary of calm, light and spaciousness in the epicentre of the world’s best metropolitan area. “You can’t design a house for somebody else,” commented architect Kenji Mizukami of Ateleir Tekuto, the Tokyo-based studio that designed Zenith Akasaka. “I have to imagine myself as the owner when I design a house. Then I know what is best for the house. I’m Japanese but I’ve lived abroad, in the UK and the US, so experience from all of this feeds into how I design a space.” Connected to nature Feel at one with nature through the green approach at the property, which is surrounded by evergreens and cherry blossom trees. The architectural principles of creating a psychological connection with the outside (nu-ke) and using borrowed scenery (sha-kkei) allow the property owners to enjoy greenery, the sky and the seasons from the comfort of the living space. The property makes the most of the site’s area, capturing maximum nat-
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ural light through careful positioning of windows and skylights, which allows the occupants to enjoy sunlight throughout the day. Careful attention has been made to protect the house and its occupants from the harsh evening sun. Cedar grain has been imprinted into beams and the exterior walls, highlighting the property’s connection to nature. Natural stone and oak floors enhance these ties to nature, whilst the simple white finishes and exposed concrete creates a relaxing atmosphere throughout. When considering interior design, the minimalist palette can be easily continued or, alternatively, contrasted with standout designer pieces.
Host guests in comfort The guest bedroom on the ground floor offers a generous-sized bedroom, ample storage closets and an en-suite bathroom.
The entrance Experience calm. Remove your shoes and step into your own personal sanctuary. The entrance hall provides a still tranquillity that acts as a transition space between outside commitments and family time.
Also on the second level, the second bedroom offers generous space, natural light, ample storage closets and an ensuite bathroom.
Store your collection Zenith Akasaka boasts parking for up to four vehicles, a rare luxury in Tokyo. The garage space is generous, able to easily accommodate a full-size Sports Utility Vehicle and a luxury sports car.
Revel in your place Situated on the second level, the master bedroom suite is an expanse of private space enabling the owner to relax and refresh. The bedroom offers over 30 square metres of space, walk-in-closets and an en-suite bathroom reminiscent of a spa. The double-sized jacuzzi bath, rain shower and his-and-her basins are all of the highest quality specification.
The centre of the home Positioned on the third floor to maximise sunlight and privacy, the living room is the most outstanding space within this spectacular house. Its spaciousness is accentuated by the double-height ceiling. There is also ample space for lounge seating and an oversized dining table to entertain large groups.
