Rusutsu, Japan—Snøhetta has designed NOT A HOTEL RUSUTSU, a new model for a vacation home nestled in the breathtaking landscape of Hokkaido Island for Japanese hospitality group, NOT A HOTEL. The project is located at the top of the famous ski resort, Rusutsu Resort, renowned for having the world's best powder snow throughout winter and as a relaxed outdoor and hiking destination during summer.
Capturing stunning views of Mount Yotei, the 1200 sqm building's clean, minimal form is informed by the surrounding mountainous terrain and the sharp site boundaries. Two linear volumes sit perpendicularly, one above the other, each gently curving to dip at the center. The volume below partially goes under the ground to house a gym and sauna. Atop is the living room and courtyard, extending into an arrival lounge, kitchen, dining area, and outdoor bath.
Hovering above the ground are the bedrooms and study. The dual volume configuration enhances functionality and architectural coherence while harmoniously integrating with the contours of the surrounding, natural landscape of Rusutsu.
“The foundation for this project was our close collaboration with NOT A HOTEL. We immersed ourselves in the stunning mountain top, snow drifts, changing seasons, and celestial zenith of the site to shape the project together. The project was formed by the landscape and our collective experience and understanding of the site. Our approach always has a fundamental connection to nature, striving to create a profound unity between our surroundings and design. For this project, we are inspired by the extraordinary natural setting, offering visitors a unique experience at the foothills of the majestic Mount Yotei”, says Richard Wood, Managing Director of Snøhetta Asia.
Zenith
Snøhetta’s design concept for the project draws inspiration from the zenith — the highest imaginary point above a specific location on the celestial sphere. This idea of reaching new heights is reflected in Snøhetta’s creation of spaces that elevate the human experience, as well as paying homage to the surrounding landscape and the majestic Mount Yotei. The central courtyard is the heart of the design and a place for community.
“The social spaces engage the mind, while the restful bedrooms rejuvenate the spirit. Our facilities, including the indoor and outdoor baths with a spectacular view, gym, and sauna ensure the well-being of the body and aim to blur the lines between inside and outside, inviting nature in. The use of natural and local materials like stone and wood further embodies this project's holistic approach to human well-being and harmony with nature”, says Ana Castaingts, Lead Interior Architect at Snøhetta.
Embodying this concept is the central courtyard of the building, serving as a focal point for gathering and reflection. It encourages both individual contemplation and communal activities, fostering a sense of aspiration and achievement within its serene environment.
The building's social zones are designed to captivate the cognitive mind, while bedrooms and rest areas serve to rejuvenate the spirit. Other facilities, including the indoor and outdoor baths overviewing Mount Yotei, gym, and sauna, promote the well-being of the body.
“Since 2020, we’ve worked as a startup to pioneer a new business model that asks the world’s most exceptional creative talent to design one-of-a-kind homes that build upon Japan's incredible natural beauty. Today’s announcement with Snøhetta and Kamori Kanko is a major leap forward towards realizing our mission. In a single unforgettable design, NOT A HOTEL RUSUTSU elevates the possibilities of 21st century architecture and offers the new apex of design for vacation homes in Japan and the entire world," says Shinji Hamauzu, CEO and founder of NOT A HOTEL.
Inviting nature in
The glass facade and expansive windows enhance the seamless indoor-outdoor transitions and invite the experience of nature within the building. Locally sourced stone and wood accents complement the landscape, enhancing sustainability and aesthetic harmony.
NOT A HOTEL offers its use to guests through shared ownership. It invites all guests to slow down, find a respite in nature, and embark on a journey of contemplative exploration.
The project moved forward in phases from July 2024.
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Press release and images courtesy of Snøhetta
Renderings by MIR
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