Cover Not A Hotel Rusutsu atop the famous ski resort in Hokkaido, Japan, designed by Snøhetta
Not A Hotel Rusutsu atop the famous ski resort in Hokkaido, Japan, designed by Snøhetta
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Norwegian architectural firm Snøhetta taps into the celestial zenith for the upcoming rent or own luxury property nestled atop Hokkaido’s Rusutsu Resort in Japan
Not A Hotel Rusutsu is the latest property from the Japanese hospitality group, located atop the famous ski resort in Hokkaido, Rusutsu Resort, which is renowned for having the world’s best powder snow throughout winter, and as a relaxed outdoor and hiking destination during the summer months.
For the 1,200 sqm resort sanctuary, Norwegian architectural firm Snøhetta draws inspiration from the zenith–the highest imaginary point above a specific location on the celestial sphere. This concept informs the property’s clean, minimal form, which offers unparalleled views of the iconic Mount Yotei.
Read more: Upcoming Not A Hotel Setouchi fuses Scandinavian and Japanese design values
Above A unique experience at the foothills of the majestic Mount Yotei
A unique experience at the foothills of the majestic Mount Yotei
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“Our approach always has a fundamental connection to nature, striving to create a profound unity between our surroundings and design,” comments Richard Wood, Managing Director of Snøhetta Asia.
“For this project, we immersed ourselves in the stunning mountain top, snow drifts, changing seasons, and celestial zenith of the site to shape the project, offering visitors a unique experience at the foothills of the majestic Mount Yotei.”
See also: Muji Base Kamogawa: A sustainable retreat in a 100-year-old Japanese house
Above Two gently curving linear volumes positioned perpendicularly
Two gently curving linear volumes positioned perpendicularly
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Snøhetta’s design features two gently curving linear volumes positioned perpendicularly, each with a dip at the centre, paying homage to the surrounding mountainous landscape and sharp site boundaries.
The dual volume configuration enhances functionality and architectural coherence, aligning with the contours of the surrounding nature.
Don’t miss: Own or rent Not A Hotel’s Earth villa designed by Sou Fujimoto
Above A glass façade with expansive windows invites the experience of nature into the building
A glass façade with expansive windows invites the experience of nature into the building
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A glass façade with expansive windows invites the experience of nature into the upper volume that hovers above the ground, with a central courtyard that serves as a focal point for individual contemplation and community gathering.
The courtyard also leads to the living room, the kitchen and dining area and the outdoor bath; as well as the bedrooms and study. Meanwhile, the other arched volume, partially submerged, houses wellness facilities including a gym and sauna.
Read more: 5 community-led projects by Riken Yamamoto, winner of Pritzker Prize 2024
Above Unimpeded views of the iconic Mount Yotei
Unimpeded views of the iconic Mount Yotei
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“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,” adds Ana Castaingts, Lead Interior Architect at Snøhetta.
Construction of Not A Hotel Rusutsu is set to begin in phases from July 2024, and will be available through shared ownership soon.
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Credits
Photography: Snøhetta
Celeste Goh is a senior writer covering architecture and design. Based in Malaysia, she reports on emerging architectural and home design trends, as well as insights by local and international architects and interior designers.
Previously, she covered men’s lifestyle, fashion, music and entertainment.
