A large certified Kyo-machiya southeast of Nijo Castle, restored as a refined residence with an annex, courtyard, and artist studio.
Project Type
Ground-up Renovation
Completion
December 2024
A large machiya shaped for living, gathering, and creative work.
Located southeast of Nijo Castle in central Kyoto, this large certified Kyo-machiya was redesigned by Tokyo-based firm Wasabi and restored by the Heritage Homes team. The project brought together the scale of a traditional machiya, the privacy of an annex, and the openness of a generous garden courtyard — creating a home with room not only for daily living, but also for creative work.
The renovation balances preserved architectural character with a bold, contemporary atmosphere. Exposed timber beams, high ceilings, dark plaster walls, latticework, and original roof details give the home a strong Kyoto identity, while the open living area, artist studio space, updated kitchen, bath, and courtyard-facing rooms make it practical for modern use. The result is a spacious, atmospheric residence where heritage, craftsmanship, and creative life meet.
⸺ Sourcing
We locate heritage properties across Kyoto and rural Japan — machiya, kominka, and former temples whose architectural integrity makes them worth preserving. Each candidate is evaluated for structural soundness, historical character, and restoration potential.
⸺ Design
Our in-house architects assess the structure and develop a sensitive restoration plan. We map what to preserve, what to repair, and where modern systems can be integrated without disturbing the home's character.
⸺ Structural Restoration
Original timber frames, beams, and lattice work are stabilized and refinished by hand. We reinforce where needed using traditional joinery and contemporary techniques — always invisible, always reversible where possible.
⸺ Modern Systems
Plumbing, electrical, insulation, and climate control are introduced behind the scenes. Kitchens, bathrooms, and storage are reimagined for contemporary life, specified in materials that match the home's vocabulary.
⸺ Interior Detailing
Hand-applied plaster, custom joinery, hinoki ofuro, integrated lighting — every visible surface is considered. We source from the same workshops that have supplied Kyoto's machiya for generations.
⸺ Handover
The completed home is documented, photographed, and prepared for its next chapter. We support new owners through purchase, registration, and the early months of living in their restored property.