Grand Tsuru Niseko Ski Villa

We wanted to design a structure that would appear relatively light, and also with a blend of horizontal and vertical lines. We also had to deal with other factors, like privacy between buildings, capturing the forest views, etc...

We wanted to achieve somenthing elegant that uses local construction methods.

Have it built.

The design of Grand Tsuru Niseko Ski Villa draws inspiration from the Japanese crane (tsuru), symbolizing grace and harmony, which profoundly influenced two defining aspects of the project: the lightness of the timber structure and the mirrored single-slope roofs.Lightness of the Timber Structure:The crane’s elegant and weightless appearance inspired the villa’s timber framing, which emphasizes slender, refined elements to create an impression of structural lightness. The precision of Japanese timber framing techniques allowed us to achieve this delicacy while maintaining strength and stability. The resulting design feels almost as if it could take flight, echoing the effortless glide of a crane in motion, and aligns with the natural setting without imposing on it.Mirrored Single-Slope Roofs:The villa’s mirrored single-slope roofs pay homage to the crane’s expansive wingspan. These roofs, gently sloping in opposite directions, evoke the symmetry and movement of a crane’s wings mid-flight. This dynamic form creates a visual dialogue with the surrounding landscape, allowing the building to blend seamlessly into its environment while capturing the poetic motion of a crane soaring through the sky.By integrating these elements, the villa embodies a delicate balance between traditional symbolism and modern design, offering a tranquil yet dynamic retreat that harmonizes with its natural and cultural context.

The harmonious balance between privacy and panoramic forest views in Grand Tsuru Niseko Ski Villa was achieved through a four-step design strategy rooted in the duality of openness and seclusion. This approach leverages the longitudinal layout and careful spatial positioning to create a sense of both retreat and connection to nature.Blind Wall and Open Wall Duality:Each villa features a deliberate contrast between blind walls, which provide privacy and shield spaces from neighboring views, and open walls with expansive glazing that invite light and forest views into the interiors. This duality ensures that residents can experience the tranquility of nature without compromising their seclusion.Expansive Windows at Each End:Large, floor-to-ceiling windows are strategically placed at the ends of each villa, particularly in the master bedroom and the living/dining/kitchen areas. These windows frame the most captivating views of the forest, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor connection while emphasizing openness in key communal and private spaces.Setback of the Third Villa:The careful positioning of the third villa, slightly set back from its neighbors, was designed to expand the viewing angles of the forest for both the third villa and its adjacent counterpart. This staggered layout avoids obstructing sightlines and enhances the sense of spaciousness across the entire development.Limited Windows on Long Walls:To maintain privacy and reduce visual exposure to nearby villas or pathways, the long walls of each building feature minimal and strategically placed openings. This creates a balance between light, ventilation, and seclusion, ensuring that residents enjoy privacy without sacrificing natural light.This four-step approach reflects a commitment to both functional living and an immersive connection to the serene forest setting, striking a delicate equilibrium that defines the character of Grand Tsuru Niseko Ski Villa.

We adopted a meticulous approach, delving deeply into the intricate details of traditional Japanese architectural methods. This involved designing every timber framing element and its connectors, as well as every window, foundation, and even the sequencing of the timber planks. By focusing on these precise elements, we achieved not only a comprehensive understanding of architectural design practices in Japan but also a finished product that stays remarkably true to our original vision.