NOT A HOTEL RUSUTSU | Snøhetta

The Concept Behind NOT A HOTEL RUSUTSU Snøhetta’s design concept for the project draws inspiration from the zenith — the highest imaginary point above a specific location on the celestial sphere. This idea of reaching new heights is reflected in the creation of spaces that elevate the human experience, and pays homage to the surrounding landscape and the majestic Mount Yotei. Embodying this concept is the central courtyard of the building, serving as a focal point for gathering and reflection. It encourages both individual contemplation and communal activities, fostering a sense of aspiration and achievement within its serene environment. The building's social zones are designed to captivate the cognitive mind, while bedrooms and rest areas serve to rejuvenate the spirit. Other facilities, including the gym, sauna, and indoor and outdoor baths, promote the well-being of the body.

NOT A HOTEL RUSUTSU Details

Exterior

The architecture, which echoes the surrounding mountain ranges and the triangular shape of the site, features a minimalist form with two slender volumes intersecting in being stacked one above the other. The house gently curves towards the center and is positioned in a relaxed manner towards Mount Yotei. The building has one basement floor and two above ground, with a gym and sauna in the basement and an open living/dining area, hot spring, and ski-out lounge on the first floor. Three guest rooms and the primary bedroom are lined up in a split-floor layout along the staircase on the entrance side.

Living / dining

The living-dining room, which embodies the design concept "zenith, " is a place where owners can spend quiet time alone or enjoy a lively time with family and friends. It is a serene environment designed with the intention of quietly awakening the positive energy within people. A chimney hangs in the center of the space, which is over 400 m² in size, piercing the sky, and the skylights provide a view of the sky that stretches out endlessly.

Lounge

Located above the dining area, this is a place where you can relax with a book or a glass of wine while overlooking Mt. Yotei.

Scenic Bath

The infinity bath is available all year round and allows you to soak in the natural hot spring while watching the ever-changing scenery of the sky and mountains.

Bath and sauna

The basement features two bathrooms: a meditation bath with minimal light and an active bath with a sauna, cold bath, and relaxation space. The rock-carved wall finish and lighting effects create a bathing experience that feels like being in a cave.

Primary bedroom

The primary bedroom is located at the very end of the stairs leading to the second floor. It is equipped with a walk-in closet, toilet, sink, and semi-open-air bathroom. The three separate guest rooms share the same design, and all rooms are equipped with toilets, sinks, and bathrooms. Wood-like materials and soft-to-the-touch fabrics gently envelop the private space.

Ski Lounge

The lounge is the starting point for skiing out. The adjacent closet space has 12 lockers, each 500mm wide, 700mm deep, and approximately 2m high. Once skiers are ready, they can head out onto the uncharted slopes.

RUSUTSU Location

NOT A HOTEL RUSUTSU will be located at the summit of Rusutsu Resort’s western mountain with a clear view of Mount Yotei (known as the Mount Fuji of Hokkaidō). Owned and operated by Kamori Kanko, Rusutsu Resort is one of Japan's largest all-season resorts. It is located near Niseko, about 90 minutes from Sapporo New Chitose Airport and surrounded by Shikotsu-Tōya National Park. (There is also a heliport on the premises.) Rusutsu attracts many skiers every year thanks to an average annual snowfall of 14 meters (45 feet) and high-quality powder snow. Rusutsu Resort boasts the most awards in Japan at the prestigious World Ski Awards, and the villa offers direct access to an expansive ski slope boasting three mountains, 37 diverse runs, and a total run distance of 42 km. The villa is surrounded by beautiful nature throughout the year. In summer, owners will be surrounded by lush greenery and refreshing breezes. The villa may be even enveloped in a sea of clouds depending on the season and weather.

Location: Rusutsu 252-3, Rusutsu Village, Abuta District, Hokkaido

Site area: 5,963.62 m2

Exclusive-use area (including indoor, terrace, and courtyard): 2,574.2 m2

Indoor area: 2,281.24 m2

Structure: Reinforced concrete structure, 2 floors above ground and 1 floor below ground

Floor plan: 4 bedrooms, accommodates up to 8 people

Overall design: Snøhetta

Detailed design: Kume Sekkei Co., Ltd.

Construction: Iwata Chizaki Construction Co., Ltd.

Owner/Seller: NOT A HOTEL RUSUTSU Special Purpose Company (Investors: Kamori Kanko / NOT A HOTEL)

Operating company: NOT A HOTEL MANAGEMENT Co., Ltd.