KAMAKURA, Japan – Nestled in the picturesque and verdant city of Kamakura, just an hour outside of Tokyo, stands a distinctive abode known as the “Cat Tree House.” This architectural marvel, crafted by renowned architect Tan Yamanouchi of AWGL, reimagines the concept of home design with a unique focus—feline happiness. Designed for a couple in their thirties and their cherished pair of cats, this residence embodies a paradise for our four-legged friends.
In a remarkable departure from conventional architectural practices, Tan Yamanouchi took inspiration from the residents of the non-human variety—two cats who, despite their inability to communicate in human language, played a central role in shaping the design. Having cohabited with these feline companions for a decade, the architects regarded them not merely as pets but as clients with distinct needs.
The cats articulated three primary requirements: a desire for temperature autonomy, a preference for proximity to their human family without sacrificing independence, and a need for an array of secure retreats adaptable to the changing seasons.
In response to these feline-centric prerequisites, the architects conceived an ingenious concept—to fashion the house as a colossal cat tree. The entire residence unfolds as an expansive staircase, featuring a central atrium illuminated by a skylight. This design choice bathes each step in natural light, casting playful shadows throughout the day. These steps, meticulously tailored to the cats’ body measurements, culminate in a staggering 23 distinctive floor levels. The house is meticulously partitioned into temperature strata, offering a diverse range of environments for the cats to explore.
The spiral staircase, designed with cantilever elements reminiscent of the traditional Japanese “tamasudare” woven bamboo screens, serves as more than a functional feature—it adds an artistic dimension to the space while regulating humidity in the humid Kamakura climate.
Within the corners of this spiraling structure, individual rooms cater to the needs of the human occupants and provide serene sanctuaries for the cats. These spaces also serve as convenient hideaways for unexpected guests, ensuring that the house caters equally to its feline and human inhabitants. Remarkably, the spiral staircase doubles as a split-level library, adorned with bookshelves suspended from the walls—a haven where the cats can recline and humans can savor a good book.
Strategically positioned windows grant the cats the opportunity to revel in the outdoor vista, simultaneously enchanting passersby with charming feline vignettes.
In Japan, pets, particularly cats, hold a cherished place in the hearts of the people. With a feline population outnumbering newborns by tenfold, it is evident that these feline companions are deeply beloved. Moreover, Japan’s aging demographic has fueled an upsurge in the appreciation of animal therapy, underscoring the relevance of homes that prioritize the needs of beloved pets.
