Analogue Revives Structural Layers in 1990s Concrete-Block House, Japan

This blog post examines Analogue’s sensitive renovation of House M in Gifu Prefecture. The house is a two‑story, early‑1990s residence defined by a robust concrete‑block shell and a gently pitched, folded‑plate roof.

Instead of erasing signs of age, the architects used the existing structure as a guide. Their interventions focus on comfort and durability while keeping the original spatial layout.

A measured, respectful renovation strategy

Analogue’s approach shows how adaptive reuse can balance conservation with modern needs. The team referenced the house’s structural language — the scale of concrete blocks, the reinforced concrete frame, and the folded roof geometry — so new elements fit naturally with the old.

Structural logic as the driving force

The original house is organized by clear axes: a north–south circulation spine on the ground floor and an east–west extension upstairs that frames views of rooftops and mountains. Three central round columns on the first floor carry the main loads and divide the interior into northern and southern zones.

This creates a layered spatial rhythm and varied atmospheres within one cohesive volume. By making interventions easy to see rather than hiding them, the architects allow people to understand how new and old parts connect.

Key interventions and design gestures

Analogue’s changes are few but carefully considered. Each new element was sized to fit the existing modular logic, making changes feel integrated but still distinct.

• Recalibrated floor edges that align with the rhythm of the blockwork.
• New fittings whose scale and detailing echo the reinforced concrete frame.
• Adjustable louvers introduced for daylight control and shading, sized to relate to the folded‑plate roof geometry.

The new components remain visible as contemporary additions. They follow a clear proportional system based on the existing structure.

Comfort, durability and minimal disturbance

One goal was to improve thermal comfort and address ground humidity while preserving the house’s structure. The architects used targeted, minimally invasive measures that respect the original systems.

This approach improves performance where needed and avoids unnecessary replacement. It also helps maintain the building’s embodied energy.

Lessons for practitioners and clients

House M demonstrates several lessons relevant to architects, engineers, and clients considering renovation:

• Let structure lead design: When the original building has a strong structural logic, use it as a guiding framework for new work.
• Dimension new work to old scale: Proportion creates harmony. Measured interventions read as contemporary yet compatible.
• Make connections legible: Visible junctions help users and future stewards understand building adaptations.
• Improve performance discretely: Address comfort and moisture problems with targeted solutions instead of large-scale changes.

 
Here is the source article for this story: analogue’s 1990s concrete-block house renovation in japan revives its structural layers