LEAD tops YEZO retreat with massive wooden roof shell in japan

hong kong-based practice laboratory for explorative architecture and design ltd. (LEAD) has unveiled a conceptual design for a small retreat, nestled in the northern mountain range of hokkaido in japan. dubbed YEZO, the design took into consideration its dramatic surroundings and applied an ecological approach, resulting in an experimental structure that creates a sanctuary in nature.

images courtesy of laboratory for explorative architecture and design ltd. (LEAD)

for YEZO, kristof crolla and julien klisz — team leaders at LEAD — centered the design around a massive wooden roof shell structure clad with regional black slate. this impressive structure consists of glue-laminated (GluLam) timber beams that are suspended from the chimney. an engineered wood product, GluLam reduces reliability on less-sustainable growth-dependent solid-sawn timber. its lean tectonic system, combined with only a most essential spatial programme, redefines the modern meaning of true luxury: a place for quiet reflection and private enjoyment in a setting defined by wood, stone, water, and light, surrounded by natural beauty.

YEZO’s elegant, fluid space follows a minimalist yet expressive performance-driven material, tectonic, and construction approach. the shapes that make it up were algorithmically optimized for fabrication from one single mold to minimize ecological impact and reduce manufacturing cost and delivery time. overall, YEZO’s lean tectonic system, combined with only a most essential spatial program, redefines the modern meaning of true luxury: a place for quiet reflection and private enjoyment in a setting defined by wood, stone, water, and light, surrounded by natural beauty.

project info:

name: yezo retreat

design: laboratory for explorative architecture & design ltd. (lead)

team: kristof crolla & julien klisz

location: hokkaido, japan

status: concept