toshihito yokouchi elevates timber dwelling above the japanese woodland

toshihito yokouchi elevates timber dwelling above the japanese woodland
all images courtesy of toshihito yokouchi architect & associates

elevated above the forest floor, this elongated timber dwelling has been designed by architect toshihito yokouchi. located in the japanese prefecture of nagano, the villa sits at the western foot of the yatsugatake mountains at an altitude of approximately 1,500 meters. appropriately named ‘house in the woods’, the building is composed of two primary elements: a reinforced concrete base, and a gabled timber volume above.

the elongated timber dwelling is elevated above the forest floor

built into the region’s undulating terrain, the lower plinth serves as the entrance to the property, lifting the residence above the damp ground. a staircase leads to generous open-plan living accommodation that contains connected cooking and dining areas. with the exception of the concrete fireplace — around which the lounge is arranged — the home’s interior is clad completely with timber. large windows provide sweeping views across the forest, evoking the sense of living among the trees.

the building is composed of a reinforced concrete base, and a gabled timber volume above

more secluded areas of the dwelling are found at the rear of the plan. three private bedrooms — including one master suite — all offer pleasant views, and are brightly and naturally lit. externally, the house is defined by its elevated and extended timber-clad form, serving as a comfortable country retreat for its inhabitants.

a staircase leads to generous open-plan living accommodation
the home’s interior is clad almost entirely with timber
the lounge is arranged around a concrete fireplace
connected cooking and dining space
large windows provide sweeping views across the forest
a more secluded space is found behind the fireplace

sleeping accommodation is found at the rear of the plan

the villa sits at the foot of the yatsugatake mountains at an altitude of approximately 1,500 meters

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project info:

location: nagano prefecture, japan
structure: wood + reinforced concrete
total floor area: 178.5 sqm
completion: may 2015
construction: tateshina workshop