In Sydney, Australia, CplusC Architects + Builders created Totoro House, an alterations and additions project that turns a family home into something far more expressive. Drawing inspiration from Studio Ghibli’s My Neighbor Totoro, the design reflects strong family connections while introducing the Japanese idea of “Shakkei”, where views of the outdoors become part of the interior experience.
What makes this home stand out immediately is its use of circular forms. From windows to furniture, the geometry repeats in a way that feels intentional without being overwhelming, giving each space a distinct identity while still feeling connected.
A Roofline That Glows After Dark
The exterior addition introduces a sweeping roofline that curves gently over a band of windows. It is a subtle move during the day, but at night it transforms. Light from inside reflects upward, bouncing off the ceiling and back into the space, creating a soft glow that makes the extension feel warm and open.
A Patio Designed for Everyday Living
Indoor and outdoor spaces are closely linked here. The addition opens onto a partially covered patio that includes a BBQ area and outdoor dining zone, making it easy to move between cooking, eating, and relaxing. The layout encourages use throughout the day, whether it is a quiet morning outside or a busy evening with family.
Circular Details That Tie It All Together
At the centre of the outdoor space, a round dining table is paired with curved chairs, echoing the circular window nearby. These repeated shapes create a visual link between architecture and furniture.
The circular motif is not just decorative. It becomes a way to guide how spaces relate to each other.
A Garden That Evolves Over Time
Behind the dining area, the garden introduces layers of planting with varying heights. The standout feature is a wall of vines positioned to grow around the circular window.
As the plants mature, the view will gradually change, adding another layer to how the house interacts with its surroundings. At night, lighting placed behind the greenery turns this wall into a glowing focal point that also illuminates the patio.
A Living Room Framed by a Round Window
Inside, the circular theme continues with a large round window in the living room. It acts almost like a lens, focusing attention on the backyard while bringing in natural light.
Large sliding, wood-framed glass doors open the space completely to the patio, removing barriers between inside and outside.
A Window Seat Built Into the Design
The depth of the circular window allows it to double as a window seat. It becomes a place to sit, read, or simply look out into the garden.
Open shelving nearby adds function without distracting from the feature, keeping the focus on the shape and the view.
A Dining Space Defined by Shape
Behind the living room, the dining area continues the theme with a round timber table set on a circular rug. The repetition of form creates a sense of cohesion between spaces.
Steps on either side connect this area to the kitchen and the original part of the home, helping old and new feel integrated.
A Bedroom That Frames the Outdoors
The new bedroom design features a large circular window positioned to capture views of the outdoor living area and backyard. This is where the idea of “Shakkei” comes into play, using the landscape as part of the room. Part of the window opens, allowing for natural cross-ventilation, while the frame itself doubles as seating.
A Bright and Functional Bathroom
In the en-suite, vertical white tiles line the walls, creating a clean and simple backdrop. A louvered window in the shower brings in natural light while maintaining privacy. It is a quieter space compared to the rest of the house, but still consistent in its attention to light and proportion.
A Plan That Brings Old and New Together
The floor plan reveals how the original house and the new addition connect. Spaces are arranged to encourage movement between them, while the new areas introduce a more open and flexible way of living.
Totoro House manages to balance creativity with function. The circular elements bring a sense of play, while the open layout and strong indoor outdoor connection make it highly usable.
By combining references from animation, Japanese design ideas, and contemporary Australian living, CplusC Architects + Builders have created a home that feels both distinctive and easy to live in.