Perched on a bluff, Hiyoku (飛翼) frames the expansive vistas of Mt. Yotei, the Shiribetsu River, and the neighboring farm. Niseko is a calm place for families and friends to regroup and reconnect, away from urban life. More space was allocated to the living, dining, kitchen area, for larger groups to comfortably hang out. The owners are avid chefs, and we put a lot of time considering the best layout to cook up hearty feasts. A large pantry keeps the room clear of clutter, yet also allows for a highly functional kitchen.
The layout of Hiyoku is adaptable to the need's of a group. The master bedroom is on the second floor of the chalet, private from the other bedrooms. The bunk room provides sleeping for 4, yet within each "pod" the occupant has privacy... a space within a space. The tatami room gives the maximum flexibility, comfortably sleeping between 1-2 people. And with 3 massive, sliding doors, the media room can be completely closed off to become a fourth bedroom.
At its heart Hiyoku is a skier & snowboarder's pad, and the attention to detail in the gear room shows that elevated position. The chunky larch stools and bench were milled from a massive larch felled on site, bespoke pieces designed by Taiga that mean to give thanks to the site itself. From the house, it is about 10-15 minutes drive to Annupuri Resort, Niseko Village, and Moiwa Resort.
The steel structure of Hiyoku allows for the large expanses of glazing and unfettered living area, and was designed for a slim, minimalist profile. Hiyoku means “flying wing”, because the light, floating roof looks like it is about to take off. The clerestory windows naturally vent the house in summer, and also give the impression the roof is floating. Triple glazed, high efficiency glass helps to keep the running costs down, as does the radiant heat of the stone encased fireplace. Nestled in a towering larch grove, the near views of the forest are incorporated into the house with a large bay window, which doubles as a reading nook.
During summer, guests can enjoy a BBQ on the cantilevered balcony, and quiet farming roads are beckoning for some truly scenic bike rides through the Hokkaido countryside.
*Additional charge will apply if number of pax is more than 9.
Awards
Architectural Masterprize - 2018 Winner in Architectural Design / Residential Architecture
IDA Design Awards - 2017 Honorable Mention
2018 Hokkaido Steel Machinery Award - steel architecture theme
