镰仓公寓丨日本丨Roovice

Designed in 2023 by Roovice, Apartment in Kamakura is nestled in Japan’s mountainous region. This residential space underwent a modern transformation, integrating its natural surroundings and featuring exposed structures. The design incorporates a green color scheme in the kitchen and lauan wood details, balancing concrete with warm wooden elements.

Originally featuring a dated 4DK layout with a dark kitchen and multiple small rooms, the renovation aimed to modernize the space. The setting especially enchants during the spring bloom of Sakura trees, which the design sought to harmoniously integrate with. All conventional wall, ceiling, and floor coverings were stripped away, exposing the raw structure and remnants of the past.

Choosing to retain these uncovered colours and patterns added a distinctive touch to the apartment’s design. A green colour scheme was chosen for the kitchen, nodding to the apartment complex’s name, “Green Heights”.

Green Accents Revitalize Old Interiors

Utilising lauan wood, a custom-made kitchen unit and counter were partially painted in a bluish-green shade matching the wall colours. Stainless countertop and grey tile flooring complement these in the corridor and kitchen, while concrete walls and mortar flooring balance with wooden shelving in the living room.

Lighting rails offer room flexibility, and the design includes a versatile space with custom shelving that can serve assorted uses. This room, along with the bedroom, incorporates lauan wood flooring, adding a cosy touch and blending modern aesthetics with traditional elements.

Modern Design Meets Traditional Touches

The renovation is part of Roovice’s Kariage initiative, refurbishing old, vacant properties at no cost to owners, then subleasing them. This project was launched in response to Japan’s growing akiya issue, with over 10 million abandoned properties across the country.

Roovice’s design incorporates the environment and the project’s history, creating a blend of modern functionality, green accents, and exposed structural beauty, offering a unique, lived-in aesthetic that bridges contemporary style with traditional charm.

Photography by Akira Nakamura