Housing in Onmae by VIDZ Architects
Chunky concrete boxes form a grid of secluded balconies across the facade of this apartment block in Kyoto by Japanese studio VIDZ Architects.
![Housing in Onmae by VIDZ Architects Housing in Onmae by VIDZ Architects](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2012/10/dezeen_Housing-in-Onmae-by-VIDZ-Architects_7.jpg)
The architects explain that the five-storey building is located on a main road near "many factories", so the balconies have high concrete walls to "ensure privacy".
![Housing in Onmae by VIDZ Architects Housing in Onmae by VIDZ Architects](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2012/10/dezeen_Housing-in-Onmae-by-VIDZ-Architects_8.jpg)
Windows infill the spaces between each balcony, with translucent glazing that also helps to maintain privacy for residents.
![Housing in Onmae by VIDZ Architects Housing in Onmae by VIDZ Architects](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2012/10/dezeen_Housing-in-Onmae-by-VIDZ-Architects_1.jpg)
The building was completed in 2007, and a concrete stairwell connects it with a second block completed by the architects back in 2000.
![Housing in Onmae by VIDZ Architects Housing in Onmae by VIDZ Architects](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2012/10/dezeen_Housing-in-Onmae-by-VIDZ-Architects_2.jpg)
Offices with exposed concrete walls occupy the top floor of the block and open out onto a terrace with a view of the city skyline.
![Housing in Onmae by VIDZ Architects Housing in Onmae by VIDZ Architects](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2012/10/dezeen_Housing-in-Onmae-by-VIDZ-Architects_3.jpg)
We've previously featured an apartment block with a mask of wooden louvres, as well as one with indoor balconies for keeping an eye on who’s coming and going.
![Housing in Onmae by VIDZ Architects Housing in Onmae by VIDZ Architects](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2012/10/dezeen_Housing-in-Onmae-by-VIDZ-Architects_5.jpg)
See all our stories about housing »
![Housing in Onmae by VIDZ Architects Housing in Onmae by VIDZ Architects](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2012/10/dezeen_Housing-in-Onmae-by-VIDZ-Architects_6.jpg)
See all more projects in Japan »
![Housing in Onmae by VIDZ Architects Housing in Onmae by VIDZ Architects](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2012/10/dezeen_Housing-in-Onmae-by-VIDZ-Architects_4.jpg)
Photography is by Yoshiharu Matsumura.
![Housing in Onmae by VIDZ Architects Housing in Onmae by VIDZ Architects](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2012/10/dezeen_Housing-in-Onmae-by-VIDZ-Architects_e_1.gif)
Elevation - click above for larger image
Project credits:
Principle use: Housing
Location: Kyoto,Japan
Completion: 2000 (1st), 2007 (2nd)
Site area: 925.58 sq m
Total floor area: 1,969.86 sq m
Number of stories: 5F
Structure: RC