in japan’s chiba prefecture, local practice JP architects has completed ‘qilin’, a residential property that forms a close relationship with its natural environment. the house takes its name from its stretched form, with ‘qilin’ translating as ‘giraffe’ in japanese. the structure is entirely clad in timber, with the use of wood continued inside the dwelling.at ground level, a warm and intimate atmosphere is established with open-plan living accommodation arranged around a centrally positioned fireplace. this expansive volume is complimented with smaller volumes that provide inhabitants with intimate areas for dining or relaxation. the use of floor-to-ceiling glazing not only enables natural light to enter the design, but also provides occupants with external views across a garden positioned at the rear of the home.