naka architects' studio constructs adaptable villa in hakuba

naka architects’ studio constructs adaptable villa in hakuba
photo by koichi torimura
all images courtesy of naka architects’ studio

located in an area of japan known for its international skiing resort, ‘villa in hakuba’ is an adaptable and constantly evolving home which reacts to the region’s changing climate. designed by local practice naka architects’ studio, the dwelling is conceived as an ‘environmental device’, establishing a close relationship with its natural landscape.

an uninterrupted ground plane forges a continuous connection with the scheme’s surroundings
photo by koichi torimura

contrasting neighboring houses, which set flooring 1 meter above the earth – protecting against snow fall – an uninterrupted ground plane forges a continuous connection with the scheme’s immediate surroundings. living accommodation is located primarily at ground level, where internal space opens out on to the sheltered terrace. bedrooms are found at the upper storey of the home, which provides views across the villa’s woodland setting.

semi-external space can be opened to the natural environment in summer months, and enclosed in winter
photos by koichi torimura

during winter months, the strong double-skin roof is able to take the strain exerted by the vast quantities of snow, while in summer, the transparent polycarbonate material allows generous amounts of sunlight to enter the property. a geothermal heat store situated underneath the floor slab provides the house with a constant source of warmth, while the snow which settles on and around the structure serves as further insulation.

living accommodation is housed primarily at ground level
photo by koichi torimura

the flexible space offers views of the scheme’s woodland setting
photo by koichi torimura

the terrace forms a communal area of the design
photo by koichi torimura

during winter, snow acts as a further level of insulation 
photo by koichi torimura

pale timber is used throughout the design
photos by koichi torimura

(left) the terrace at night
(right) ‘villa in hakuba’ surrounded by snow in winter
photos by koichi torimura

project info:

title: villa in hakuba
architect: toshiharu naka
location: kakuba, nagano pref., japan
completed: 2012
photography: koichi torimura