Dream dwelling

April 20, 2011

Dream dwelling

UK-born Steve Gainer introduces his tailor-made house

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Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on April 2011

Building your own home in Japan is not as difficult—or expensive—as it might sound. Asentia deals with architecture, design and construction to ensure a smooth, flawless relationship with the client—fundamental to ensuring your house ends up just how you wanted it. Steve and Kikue Gainer completed their dream home in July 2009. Originally from the UK, Gainer had always wanted to build his own house—and found a nice spot of land in Shimokitazawa. Asentia introduced the couple to various architects. “We could study their proposals and decide which of them really got it,” says Gainer.

The process involved six months of design and six of construction. “This is quite different from other countries,” continues Gainer. “The big thing is the space issue. We only had 77m2, so the intense design schedule is required to make the most of it.” Communication was not a problem, with photos and samples helping to show what the couple wanted. “The staff were really sensitive to my needs as a foreigner—I never felt out of control.” And with biweekly meetings the design process couldn’t have gone smoother.

To maximize space, the design utilized cantilevers, meaning the house’s upper portion is larger than its footprint—“which also gives us covered parking,” Gainer adds. They also put in a basement, which provided a solidity they were thankful for during the earthquake of March 11, when the house faced the ultimate test and came through with flying colors. Best of all, the roof is equipped with solar panels, meaning more than enough energy is generated in summer—and 50-70 percent in winter—which is not only environmentally friendly, but also a good saving. And speaking of the bottom line, Gainer explains that the whole process was not as expensive as you might think. “Compared with buying a house it’s about the same, especially considering legal costs, renovation, unexpected and costly surprises, etc.” His friends and family back home were stunned by how stylish and modern the house was. “But the main thing,” concludes Gainer, “is that everything is just how we wanted it.”