1. “Shell Residence”
By: Leanna Schrock

2. A little bit about it...
Eco-friendly summer home
Architectural design style created by Japanese Architect, Kotaro
Ide of ARTechnic
Comprised of two tubes with oval sections, which makes up a “J”
shape, and a courtyard in the center
The exterior of the “Shell” residence is covered in a concrete
structure and finished with a penetrative sealer for concretes
Deck wood is used for the patio area
Large double-glazed openings
Communal spaces are located on the ground floor, whereas the
private spaces, such as the bedrooms, are located on the
second floor

5. Climate issues resolved:
“The low temperatures in Karuizawa along with the
increased humidity levels make for a harsh climate. As a
result many houses in the area with a traditional structure
and construction are facing overwhelming decaying
problems. With this in mind the architect came up with a
large shell structure which floats above the ground and is
constructed by reinforced concrete. Taking example from
other villas of the nearby area which have not been used
for many years, Kotaro Ide tried avoiding the common
structure and materials used in the construction. The use of
reinforced concrete for the residence will assist the
residence in protecting itself from the high humidity levels
and the cold.”

8. Pros & Cons:
 Pros
 Structurally sound, as it is
made of concrete
 Aesthetically pleasing
 Built with climate
conditions in mind
 Cons
 Walls are curved
 wall décor?
 Mainly windows
 not much privacy
 Seems fairly expensive

10. Ethical Implications:
Materials used on the houses are strong and less
likely to decay – helps the environment; houses
last longer and won’t need to be torn down and
rebuilt
Harmonizes itself with nature in its design
 Organic shape; very simple
Large floor-to-ceiling windows to let light in
 Less electricity needed for lamps

12. Bibliography:
photo (c) Nacasa & Partners Inc., Image Courtesy of Kotaro Ide // ARTechnic Japan
Argyriades, Marcia. "Shell Residence by Kotaro Ide." Yatzer™. 14 Oct. 2010. Web. 18 Nov.
2010. <http://www.yatzer.com/Shell-Residence-by-Kotaro-Ide>.
Ann. "Kotaro Ide | Shell Residence - L'usine." L'usine - La Cafeteria De L'usine. 25 Oct. 2010.
Web. 18 Nov. 2010. <http://lusinespace.com/kotaro-ide-shell-residence-1963.html>.
"Shell House by Kotaro Ide in Japan - House Design News." House Design News - House,
Interior, Design News, Home Design, Home Furniture, Home Garden, Home Decorating,
Residential, Modern House, Contemporary House, Etc. Web. 18 Nov. 2010.
<http://www.housedesignnews.com/home-design-ideas/shell-house-by-kotaro-ide-in-
japan/>.