Reflection of Mineral is a futuristic and abstract micro-home located in Tokyo, Japan, designed by Atelier Tekuto and completed in 2006. The project was a response to the client's desire for an exciting, volume-maximizing home with a covered garage on a small, irregularly shaped corner lot in a densely populated urban area. The design drew inspiration from the concepts of a "mineral" and "reflection." The multifaceted, polygonal shape was a direct result of maximizing the buildable volume within the confines of three different height restrictions. This process was likened to cutting a precious gemstone. The pristine white facade contrasts with the urban context, emphasizing its distinct geometric form. The "reflection" concept: Inside, the interplay of light and geometry creates a dynamic, fluid sense of space, expanding the perceived boundaries of the compact interior. Transparent and translucent surfaces, as well as mirrored finishes on the third-floor bathroom unit, induce visual reflection that changes as people move or as light shifts.

Despite its small footprint (around 86 square meters across four levels, including a basement), the interior feels much more expansive due to the clever design. Strategic window placements, particularly on the corners, draw the eye along diagonals, increasing the sense of depth. The functional elements, such as the kitchen, counter shelves, and floors, contrast with the abstractness of the building's overall polyhedron shape. Reflective stainless steel in the bathroom and carefully considered interior appointments further the themes of mineral and reflection. A small plaza-like space on the ground floor, created by elevating the house with a piloti, provides a rare sense of openness in the tight urban setting.

Project credits Architects: Atelier Tekuto Design Team: Yasuhiro Yamashita, Yoichi Tanaka Structural Design: Takeyuki Gaino / G.Design Construction: Shigeki Matsuoka / Home Builder Photographer: Makoto Yoshida Location: Nakano ward, Tokyo, Japan Completion Year: 2006