NOT A HOTEL KITAKARUIZAWA - NATURE WITHIN | UNFORMED DESIGN

Hassan Elgendy and Nahed Zmeter of the Milan-based architectural studio UNFORMED DESIGN provided the design for NATURE WITHIN as the winning entry of the first-ever NOT A HOTEL DESIGN COMPETITION in 2024. Their design beat out 620 other submissions from 23 countries. NATURE WITHIN will be located in Kitakaruizawa, a forested area marked by huge lava boulders. The design integrates with the environment to allow owners and guests to feel as if they’re "living among the rocks. " With an indoor area of 288 m² , NATURE WITHIN offers the largest indoor area of NOT A HOTEL’s Kitakaruizawa properties and creates a feeling of having all of nature for one’s self.

PROPERTY OVERVIEW

NATURE WITHIN will be part of the larger NOT A HOTEL KITAKARUIZAWA resort area that currently contains the properties IRORI and BASE as well as MASU (currently under construction). The forested area is dotted with lava boulders from the great eruption of nearby volcano Mount Asama approximately 240 years ago.

The shape of NATURE WITHIN is an imperfect oval, designed to blend into the terrain. The roof appears to float between three lava rocks, with a gently curved space that spreads out below. Defined by wood, rock, glass, and raw metal, the space dissolves into the surrounding majestic nature, quietly reflecting the beauty of its landscape, creating a stage for an extraordinary experience. This organic form allows the house to rise discreetly from the ground, with a facade composed primarily of glass that frames expansive views of the landscape and allows natural light inside. Owners and guests can enjoy a variety of scenes, such as an open view of the forest or directly into large rocks.

Exclusive area (including indoor area and terrace): 524.0 m2

Indoor area: 288.0 m2

Floor plan: Three bedrooms

Maximum occupancy: Eight people

Concept

The site's ancient landscape combines scattered giant lava rocks, groves of trees, and the dramatically rising earth. Inspired by the natural environment, the architecture is soft yet bold in tracing the undulating ground. Nature is not just to be viewed, but lived within, weaving new stories among the rocks.

ARCHITECTURE

NATURE WITHIN creates an organic space that weaves its way between the boulders, rising up as if it is a part of the terrain. Under the large, floating roof, some of the rooms offer an open view, while others provide the serenity of being embraced by the rocks. Using wood, rock, glass and base metal as its main elements, the villa blends in with the majestic nature while also attractively reflecting the beautiful scenery.

LIVING, DINING, and KITCHEN

The 97m² living/dining room offers an open, panoramic view that makes guests feel as if they are in the middle of a forest. The original oval sofa and pendant lights, designed to complement the architectural form, take center stage in this space, creating a relaxing spot.

ONSEN

The private open-air bath is nestled within the layered shade of surrounding rocks, allowing bathers to become one with nature. Under the open sky, bathers can immerse themselves in the scenery while the hot spring gently warms their body.

BATH and SAUNA

The bathroom, with a rock bath and its walls finished in lava stone tiles, is a tranquil space reminiscent of a cave. Equipped with a sauna, cold bath, and outdoor bathing space, guests can relax their body and mind while enjoying the atmosphere of the forest.

PRIMARY BEDROOM

The bedroom uses a calming wood motif. The minimalist space accentuates the abundant natural scenery outside the window, evoking a sense of the boundary between inside and outside. The primary bedroom has direct access to the open-air bath on the terrace.

GUEST BEDROOM

The guest bedroom is surrounded by rocks and trees, creating a sense of privacy. As a mix of wood, stone, and soft light, the space is a beautiful blend of natural textures. The silence of the forest flows right into it, creating a moment of peaceful rest.

PLAYROOM

The playroom can be used for multiple purposes, including as a bedroom. The dynamic view of the huge rocks that seem they can be touched, enhancing the sense of the power and openness of the site, while also enveloping guests as if they were being embraced by the earth.

FIREPLACE

The fireplace is set up to blend into the silence of the forest. Located just off the living room, it's a great place to linger after a meal or chat around the fire.