Perched on a bluff overlooking the Shiribetsu River, Hiyoku (飛翼) was designed to welcome in the expansive vistas of Mt. Yotei, the river, and the neighboring farm. The steel structure of Hiyoku allows for the large expanses of glazing and unfettered living area, and was designed for a slim, minimalist profile. A large cantilever protrudes to one side, doubling as a covered space for chopping fire wood and tinkering with gear.
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.
At its heart Hiyoku is a skier'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.
Niseko is a calm place for the family to regroup and reconnect, away from their urban, Asian life. More space was allocated to the living, dining, kitchen area, for the whole family 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 is adaptable to the growing family, plus the occasional visit from friends and extended family. With this in mind, 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.
Awards
Architectural Masterprize - 2018 Winner in Architectural Design / Residential Architecture
IDA Design Awards - 2017 Honorable Mention
2018 Hokkaido Steel Machinery Award - steel architecture theme
Please see our accommodation page for more details on booking Hiyoku.