kengo kuma elevates country villa above japanese landscape

kengo kuma elevates country villa above japanese landscape
photo © daici ano
all images courtesy of kengo kuma and associates

kengo kuma and associates has completed a countryside villa set in a rural area of eastern japan. influenced by le corbusier’s villa savoye and andrea palladio’s villa la rotonda, the design is perched lightly on previously existing concrete foundations – envisioned as a cloud floating above the forest landscape. rather than being completely autonomous, the dwelling allows itself to become one with the forest, a building that exists comfortably and naturally within its setting.

the project is characterized by an external deck which runs around the perimeter of the upper level, oriented to receive direct sunlight. the lightweight structure uses thin materials throughout, with flooring constructed from high strength fiber-reinforced concrete that is only 87mm thick. the roof plane is also exceptionally narrow extending into the forest, while simultaneously referencing the region’s vernacular style.

the building exists comfortably and naturally within its forest setting
photo © daici ano

the project is characterized by an external deck which runs around the perimeter of the upper level
photo © daici ano

the design is perched lightly on previously existing concrete foundations
photo © daici ano

a stairway connects the two storey structure
photos © daici ano

the upper terrace is oriented to capture sunlight throughout the day
photo © daici ano

the decking offers expansive views across the woodland
photo © daici ano

floor-to-ceiling glazing brings natural light into the home’s living areas
photo © daici ano

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project info:

location: east japan
completed: 2013
type: residential villa
size: 52.57 square meters
photography: daici ano