To accommodate the diverse living and working styles of city dwellers in the greater Tokyo area, designers remodelled this two-storey apartment compound into a multi-use rental residence. Inspired by early modern Machiya buildings, they wanted to recreate a sense of belonging and a friendly neighbourhood. In addition to living space, the residence has studios, cafés, bookshops and boutiques. The skillful use of wood, concrete and plaster makes the renovated, re-partitioned interior modern, bright and clean, while the concrete terrace extension provides an inviting recreational space.