Errismann Residence

Overview

The Errismann Residence, located in Motomachi, Naka-ku, Yokohama, is a Western-style house built between 1925 and 1926 as the home of Fritz Errismann, a Swiss silk trader. It was designed by Antonin Raymond, a master of modern architecture. Raymond came to Japan as an assistant to Frank Lloyd Wright before establishing his own successful career. The Errismann Residence, designed early in Raymond's independent career, showcases his architectural philosophy of "naturalness, simplicity, directness, honesty, and economy." The house features a horizontal roofline, large windows, and bright colors, reflecting the trends of the time while showcasing Raymond's unique style. The Errismann Residence was unfortunately demolished in 1982 to make way for a condominium, but recognizing its historical significance, the Yokohama city government purchased the materials and relocated and restored it to Motomachi Park in 1990. Now a designated Yokohama City Historical Building, it's open to the public. Visitors can see period furniture and furnishings, and a café offers sweets and light meals featuring soy sauce. The area also boasts other historical buildings designed by Raymond, such as the Berrick Hall and the Yamate 234 Bankan, making it an ideal spot to explore Yokohama's Yamate district of Western-style houses. A visit to the Errismann Residence offers a glimpse into the life of Yokohama in its past, as well as the architectural beauty of Raymond's work.