A Circus Tent-Inspired Vacation Home for a Car Lover in Japan

There are those people that love their car… and then those that really, really love their car. The latter is the case for the owner of this vacation house in Chiba, Japan, designed by Hitoshi Saruta of CUBO design architect. The 24-sided volume resembles a circus tent, making its name – The Circus – right on point. In lieu of a typical, built-in garage, the architect opted to unite both people and cars in a unique, relaxed environment. Now, they can “spend time with cars” and appreciate them while doing so.

The dome-like space allows for all types of layouts that can easily be changed. An elevated, round table lives in the center to create the second floor, while forming a circular bar situation below.

The roof and frame give the feeling of looking up into the inside of a paper umbrella, a nod to Japanese design.

No support posts were required due to the slanted outer walls that maintain the tension.

The main floor acts as a garage and living space with all functionally lining the perimeter and central core. A staircase leads to the open, second story which houses the owner’s bedroom with a jacuzzi and waterfall shower.

Photos by Koji Fujii / TOREAL.