This is the front porch of our house in Minakami and the impressive collection of icicles that welcomed us this past weekend. Beautiful but lethal. Below is an array of photos of our neighbors' houses. Though clad with metal roofing today, I bet that most were once topped with thick thatch. In fact, it may still be underneath. Unfortunately, Japanese thatch does not last that long. It is expensive to replace and only possible if the right roofer can be found -- thatchers are a dying breed.
With its red coloring and hipped ends, this one is particularly photogenic all year round. But you have to admit, it does look especially good against the snow.
Throughout Japan, roof shapes vary, reflecting regional climate conditions and different agricultural pursuits. Though located in Gunma, the houses above and below seem to be variants on the "broadside helmet" shape found in the neighboring Nagano and Saitama Prefectures. I love the way the massive roof hovers protectively over the house pictured above.
This house has clearly seen better days but the roof shape still does a good job of keeping the snow from accumulating. Can you see the vague resemblance between its end elevation and a Japanese helmet?
In the case of storehouses such as this one, the outermost roof is slightly elevated for ventilation (there may be a second layer of some sort underneath). Made of thick, plaster-like masonry for fire protection, these tiny, little buildings were once entrusted with the family's most precious possessions. Wonder what it is in there today. Consequently, they do not have many windows but a little fresh air keeps the contents from rotting. And extending the eaves protects the building from heavy rains.
This house is under construction nearby. The client, a doctor who owns property further up the hill as well, is rebuilding a minka farmhouse as his weekend home. If you look carefully, you can see the original, dark wood frame that the carpenters are incorporating into the new construction. I am sure the finished product will be spectacular though I wonder about the siting. It seems too close to the road and the utility tower nearby is unsightly (though hopefully not visible inside).
On Sunday, when the carpenters were not on site, Abby and I did a little investigation. Taking advantage of the tree's bent shape and its inherent structural strength, some of the original roof beams are curved. In lieu of nails or hardware, the old beams are lashed together with rope, enabling the easy deconstruction, transport and rebuilding of these historic houses. It is nice to see someone breathing new life into this one.
Lastly, even this petite, roadside shrine has not just one but two roofs of its own.
No comments:
Post a Comment