While visiting the World Expo, we stayed at Batonship Inn Osaka (BIO) a creative example of compact, considered living in the quiet neighbourhood of Nakatsu. Tucked down a little laneway, BIO is a row of five renovated townhouses known as KITA-no-Kita-Nagaya, a project that reimagines old wooden homes in dense urban environments. Combining contemporary comforts with traditional Japanese design, these homes demonstrate how spatial limitations can become creative opportunities.
The smallest and most recent of the five, BIO_005, is an efficient layout across two compact levels with a total floor area of just 32m2. Entry is via a small concrete genkan, a transitional space where shoes are exchanged for slippers, marking the boundary between outside and inside. The material palette changes at this threshold, with warm cork flooring introducing a softer feel and continuing the use of natural finishes throughout.
Service spaces are neatly arranged downstairs, including a compact kitchen, dining area, laundry and a wet-room style shower, while the sleeping area is positioned above. A raked ceiling and skylight over the stair create an exaggerated sense of vertical space, flooding the stair void with daylight. Privacy is managed through privacy glass and plant screened openings.
The use of natural materials of timber and cork, paired with a tactile layering of artworks, potted plants and books, creates a home that feels lived in and creative. Thoughtful details, such as the steel awning at the entrance which mirrors the swing of the door, serve a practical purpose by providing shelter while subtly reflecting the principle of design following function.
Despite its size, the home feels generous. A tiny balcony overlooks the quiet neighbourhood, while a shared garden filled with greenery brings a peaceful atmosphere and connection to nature. It’s a reminder that comfort and beauty don’t require large footprints, only thoughtful design.
When compact living is designed with care, it can feel expansive, grounded in nature and deeply responsive to daily life. By focusing on essentials and using natural materials, homes of any size can offer beauty, calm and a lasting sense of comfort.
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