SATOSHI OKADA
ARCHITECTS

Guesthouse in Karuizawa main

GUESTHOUSE IN KARUIZAWA

The Guesthouse in Karuizawa is a designated retreat for a Japanese company, designed to encourage the contemplation of nature through an overlooking platform amidst a lush, green environment.

The main building was completed in 2016, followed by a smaller annex completed in 2017.

To immerse the spatial experience into the surrounding forest, the entrance level is almost entirely made of glass, protruding towards a creek streaming nearby.

The deep canopy roof ensures comfort and protection while framing the panoramic view. Taking advantage of the natural topography, the most private spaces, guest rooms and Japanese spa are located on the lower level, highlighting the backdrop of the coniferous forest. The building is partially integrated into the hilly terrain, creating a slender, single-story structure when viewed from the main gate. The juxtapositions of the polished bare concrete, warm-tint timber, and stone foster a careful balance between simplicity and ornament.

LOCATION
Karuizawa, Nagano JP
PROGRAM
Private guesthouse
YEAR
2017
SIZE
2080 sqm
STRUCTURE
RC + steel
LEAD ARCHITECT
Satoshi Okada
TEAM
Lisa Tomiyama, Eiji Iwase, Tsuyoshi Oshiyama
COLLABORATORS
STRUCTURAL DESIGN:
B-Farm
CONTRACTOR:
Sasazawa Construction Company,Takahashi Kogyo co.
PHOTO CREDITS:
Satoshi Shigeta
AWARDS
Prix Versailles, Exteriors North East Asia, FR 2017

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