NOT A HOTEL” by Snøhetta: A Tranquil Architectural Masterpiece Overlooking Mount Yotei
Renowned for its innovative and nature-integrated architecture, Snøhetta has unveiled its latest creation “NOT A HOTEL”: a serene vacation home perched atop the picturesque landscape of Hokkaido Island. Designed for the Japanese hospitality group, this architectural marvel stands at the Rusutsu Resort, a location famed for its world-class powder snow in winter and tranquil hiking trails in summer. The project, which epitomizes the harmony between modern design and natural beauty, offers breathtaking views of the iconic Mount Yotei.
Spanning 1,200 square meters, the building’s minimalist and clean lines are directly influenced by the rugged mountainous terrain and the sharply defined site boundaries. The structure is composed of two interlocking volumes that rest perpendicularly to one another, each subtly curving to create a gentle dip at the center. The lower volume partially submerges into the earth, housing a gym and sauna, while the upper volume, elevated from the ground, features the living spaces, including a study and bedrooms.
This dual-volume configuration not only enhances the building’s functionality but also ensures a cohesive architectural identity. By harmonizing with the natural contours of Rusutsu’s landscape, the structure becomes a seamless extension of its environment, embodying Snøhetta’s design philosophy of deep connection with nature.
Richard Wood, Managing Director of Snøhetta Asia, reflects on the project’s inception: “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. Our approach always has a fundamental connection to nature, striving to create a profound unity between our surroundings and design.”
A Design Inspired by the Zenith
The design of NOT A HOTEL draws its conceptual inspiration from the zenith—the highest point in the sky as seen from a particular location. This metaphorical zenith is reflected in Snøhetta’s commitment to creating spaces that elevate the human experience while honoring the grandeur of the surrounding landscape, particularly the majestic Mount Yotei.
At the heart of the building lies a central courtyard, a serene space that serves as both a communal gathering spot and a place for individual reflection. This courtyard not only anchors the design but also fosters a sense of community, aspiration, and contemplation, offering guests a unique environment to engage with both nature and each other.
“The social spaces engage the mind, while the restful bedrooms rejuvenate the spirit,” says Ana Castaingts, Lead Interior Architect at Snøhetta. “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.”
Blurring the Boundaries Between Indoors and Outdoors
One of the defining features of NOT A HOTEL is its seamless integration with the surrounding environment. Expansive glass facades and large windows dissolve the boundary between interior and exterior spaces, inviting guests to experience nature from within the comfort of their home. Locally sourced materials, such as stone and wood, not only enhance the building’s sustainability but also reinforce its aesthetic harmony with the landscape.
The design encourages a slower pace of life, urging visitors to find solace in nature and embark on a journey of contemplative exploration. This ethos is further supported by NOT A HOTEL’s unique shared ownership model, which allows guests to experience the property as a retreat from the bustle of everyday life, reconnecting with the serene beauty of Japan’s natural landscapes.
Redefining the Vacation Home Experience
Since its inception, NOT A HOTEL has aimed to pioneer a new business model that leverages the talents of the world’s most exceptional designers to create one-of-a-kind homes that celebrate Japan’s natural beauty. With the Rusutsu project, Snøhetta and NOT A HOTEL have elevated the concept of vacation homes to new heights, offering what Shinji Hamauzu, CEO and founder of NOT A HOTEL, describes as “the new apex of design for vacation homes in Japan and the entire world.”
In collaboration with Kamori Kanko, this project exemplifies how 21st-century architecture can push boundaries while staying grounded in the timeless principles of beauty, functionality, and harmony with nature. The result is a sanctuary that not only provides a luxurious retreat but also a profound connection to the landscape, inviting all who enter to slow down, breathe deeply, and experience the world from a new, elevated perspective.
All images courtesy of Snøhetta, shared with permission
Snøhetta website: www.snohetta.com
