Cedar Fence for a Machiya Stay

Project Overview

A compact outdoor space redefined through a simple wooden fence.
Designed and built for Satoyama Experience, this project creates a private enclosure within a tightly packed machiya context—allowing both guestsand their dogs to move freely while feeling protected.

Context

The house sits within a traditional machiya neighborhood, where buildings are closely spaced and visual boundaries are minimal.

The request was:

• Create a space where dogs can run     safely
• Ensure privacy from neighboring     houses
• Keep the design natural and quiet

The challenge was to introduce separation without breaking the atmosphere of the place.

Materials

• Local Hinoki — used for structural pillars
• Local Cedar — used for horizontal boards

Both materials were selected for their warmth, scent, and ability to age naturally over time.
The contrast between hinoki structure and cedar surface creates subtle depth without adding complexity.

Craft & Joinery

The fence is built with a clear rhythm of vertical posts and horizontal boards, keeping the expression calm and consistent.

Particular attention was given to:

• The alignment of boards across     the entire surface
• The spacing between boards for     light and airflow
• The integration of the door     within the same language

The gate was designed to disappear into the fence—reading as one continuous surface rather than a separate element.

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Technical Challenges

Working within an existing concrete base required careful intervention.

• Holes had to be precisely cut     into concrete for each post
• Positioning was critical to     maximize usable space
• Limited working area required     efficient sequencing

Each decision had to balance structural stability with spatial efficiency.

Fabrication Process

The process moved between site and workshop:

• Preparing posts and boards to consistent dimensions
• Cutting precise joinery for alignment and stability
• Installing posts into concrete foundations
• Building the fence incrementally to maintain accuracy

At the same time, filming for NHKWorld – Where We Call Home was taking place, adding another layer of awareness to the process.

Result

A simple enclosure that feels natural to the space.

The fence provides:

• Privacy without complete     isolation
• A safe area for dogs to move     freely
• A calm backdrop for guests to     spend time outdoors

From inside, the space feels contained and comfortable.
From outside, it blends into the surrounding materials and scale of the neighborhood.

Nothing stands out, but everything works.