Surrounded by the luxuriant greenery at the bow of the soaring Mt. Asama, an alleged cabin in the woods is born, through the dexterous fingers of K+S Architects. The need for the waterside shelter where swimming and calming of the soul was possible, the architects started this way to maneuver through the process of natural satellites, and thus, the design was the outcome.
Designing Within Nature's Embrace
The site, shaped like a rhombus and bordered by a gravel road, offered a canvas for architectural ingenuity. Guided by the southward diagonal axis and the natural slope of the terrain, the architects envisioned a structure seamlessly integrated into the landscape. Floors with varying levels were conceived, echoing the undulating topography and creating a dialogue with the environment.
(Photo : Hiroshi Ueda)
On the lower floor, the terrace itself is just another part of nature which sustains and maintains connections with the greens. You can come here, sit at them and benefit from the new side of nature. The roofscape is sophisticated and its slope is slightly undulating to reflect the land's forms the roof height on the forest side is higher, which allows you to see the tops of the towering trees. As dusk sets in, a gentle evening breeze whistles among the canopy trees, softly flavoring the space with a smooth breeze.
Beyond the entry level, the elevation offers a bigger inner space. This space is uniquely different from the others on the ground floor. It exudes versatility, spaciousness, openness, and a renewable energy. All in all, there will be an inner bench that will create a communication corner while gazing to the terrace. The whole place will have the magical effect of making many people gathering in the likeable tiny area. Climbed with eaves for protection against the sun, yet allowing the view of the garden, it will embody exactly that way we cash in on the best of the nature and make our houses comfortable.
(Photo : Hiroshi Ueda)
Integrating Tranquility
The minimalistic bed space, seamlessly connected to the lofty hall, provides a tranquil haven with vistas of the forest beyond. Bathrooms and toilets, ensconced at this level, are designed for privacy without sacrificing the connection to nature. A small balcony adorned with a bench invites contemplation, allowing one to immerse in the sights and sounds of the forest while relishing a good read.
(Photo : Hiroshi Ueda)
Honoring Ecological Integrity
The stable goal of their activity was to ensure stability of the environment and land. Abundant preparation allowed for only one tree to be chopped and, in its place, after planting, a large and wonderful mountain cherry tree emerged, a mark of respect for nature's plenty.
Nature is the mute witness of the existence of the cabin in the deserted forest that waits as quiet as the moon and as weather-worn as stone and is a manifestation of human skills and nature's beauty While the sunlight shadows side the branches and the caress of the whisper of the wind come dancing among the trees, this architectural marvel is the peace where one can find shelter in the bosom of the forest.
