This mountain villa was designed and planned based on a villa our firm originally designed in 1984 in the Yatsugatake Highlands (Japan) for a different site.
The clients, a married couple, were looking for a place that would allow a dual-base lifestyle while cherishing time with their beloved dog. Initially, the plan was to renovate the Yatsugatake lodge that had been put up for sale; however, considering ease of access to central Tokyo, they ultimately chose Suwa (Japan) as the new location.

The defining characteristics of this building are its horizontally spreading spaces and its hipped roof with deep eaves, whose complex form evokes the surrounding mountain ranges.
Upon entering the house, circulation is divided between the living–dining area and the guest room. The square living space, which features a fireplace, opens toward a dining area that is set back to draw in the outdoor space. This area, together with the kitchen’s horizontal window, becomes a sun-filled space that admits natural light and views from two directions.
Beyond the main living spaces, two private rooms and a bathroom are arranged away from the lively common areas. All of these rooms are located on the south side and are connected by a wood deck, allowing each to engage with the sky and enjoy views of Mount Fuji, the Yatsugatake range, and the surrounding landscape.
Meanwhile, the guest room, accessible directly from the entrance hall, is equipped with its own toilet and shower room, creating an independent, hotel-like space that ensures privacy while offering ample flexibility.

The roof form directly expresses the relationships among these spaces, appearing as ridgelines and contributing to the building’s distinctive and rich character.

While updating the villa to suit contemporary lifestyles, we believe this project has offered a valuable opportunity to rediscover its inherent character and carry forward the ambience of 42-year-old architecture.