The first European exhibition of Japanese architect Kazunari Sakamoto´s house designs is currently being held in the Pinakothek der Moderne in Munich. His projects are developed outside the mainstream of architectural trends, and, unlike the work of many Japanese architects, they seem at first sight quite unspectacular, with their clear proportions, simple materials and practical, unfussy air. Yet it is precisely this which gives them their special charm. By avoiding dramatic features, Sakamoto lets the eye appreciate the space; he carefully selects the views seen from inside, enabling the inhabitants to enter into a dialogue with the environment. Surfacing materials like concrete, plaster or wood typify the seemingly timeless character of his designs. Increasingly Sakamoto does away with traditional spatial divisions, yet without sacrificing the particular spatial identity of each area. The rooms are special, but have no feature that is evidently special.