top of page
HUT


Rising boulders and the forest of Kita-Karuizawa, imbued with primal memories, form the setting for a villa that stands quietly, as if bivouacking in the wild.
The HUTs -polygonal cabins arranged in a continuous sequence - open in multiple directions, responding to the diverse expressions and scales of nature, from the layered canopy of the forest to the rugged surfaces of surrounding boulders.
Along the circulation that weaves through the site, cozy spaces shaped by inclined columns unfold in an irregular rhythm, forging an organic relationship with the ever-changing landscape.
Intimate yet open, luxurious yet primitive - the seemingly opposing spatial qualities intertwine to create a one-of-a-kind villa experience.

An approach weaving through massive boulders.

Upon entry, a delicate water curtain reminiscent of Shiraito Falls cascades, with a landscape of boulders faintly visible beyond. Shimmering water ripples from the skylight are cast across the floor, welcoming guests with an interplay of natural phenomena.


An irregular sequence of HUT volumes creates coziness with a sense of spatial depth.

A playroom featuring a cushioned area and a canopy utilizing the height of the HUT. By closing the canopy between the columns, the space transforms into a tent-like theater room.


The bed space is enclosed by a 4.5-meter-high canopy employing angled columns, with a skylight at the top to let in morning sunlight. A continuous planting bed around perimeter enhances privacy while serving as a foreground that adds a layered depth to the surrounding landscape.

The surface of the bath seamlessly merges with the pond, flooding the view with the landscape and dappled sunlight. Fully opening the sliding doors transforms it into a semi-open-air bath, directly engaging the untamed scenery.


Scope:Design & Branding
Program:Villa
Structure:Steel + Timber
Location:Kita-Karuizawa
Site Area:4,860㎡
Floor Area:440㎡
© DESIGN 4-1 Architects
bottom of page